Two suspects wanted in shooting death of off-duty Greensboro police officer at gas station

In a tragic incident, an off-duty Greensboro watch commander officer was shot and killed on Saturday night at a Sheetz gas station located on the 3200 block of Sandy Ridge Road. The Greensboro Police Chief, John Thompson, confirmed that another off-duty officer and a Guilford County paramedic attempted to save the officer's life at the scene, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

Officer's Heroic Act:

The fallen officer, identified as an off-duty sergeant with 22 years of service, was trying to intervene and stop a crime at the time of the shooting. The officer's courageous act to prevent criminal activity underscores the dedication and sacrifice of law enforcement.

Community Mourns:

Greensboro Mayor Nancy Vaughn expressed deep sorrow, stating, "I am angry, and I am sad. What happened today was a senseless act of violence, and we have to remember that." The mayor acknowledged the impact of the incident on the entire community, emphasizing the gravity of the loss.

Search for Suspects:

As of the latest update, authorities have not confirmed if the suspects involved in the shooting are in custody. The North Carolina Highway Patrol issued a Blue Alert, providing descriptions of the suspects – two black men in their early 20s. The suspects were last seen driving a Black Chevrolet Equinox along I-40 westbound. The community is urged to remain vigilant, and law enforcement continues efforts to apprehend the individuals responsible.

Statewide Support:

Governor Roy Cooper offered condolences and pledged state resources to aid in capturing the perpetrators. The Wake County Sheriff's Office expressed solidarity with the Greensboro Police Department, extending deepest condolences to the fallen officer's family and the entire community.

Lt. Governor Mark Robinson's Response:

Lt. Governor and Gubernatorial candidate Mark Robinson conveyed his condolences, stating, "We honor this brave officer for making the ultimate sacrifice in protecting our city." Robinson emphasized the importance of supporting law enforcement during this heartbreaking moment and called for prayers for the officer's loved ones and the Greensboro PD.

Ongoing Investigation:

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and the community awaits updates on the apprehension of the suspects. The tragic loss serves as a stark reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face, even while off-duty, in their commitment to public safety.

The Greensboro Police Department has officially canceled the Blue Alert issued for two suspects involved in the fatal shooting of a watch commander officer on Saturday night. The tragic incident occurred at a Sheetz gas station on the 3200 block of Sandy Ridge Road.

Victim Identified:

The watch commander officer, who valiantly attempted to intervene and stop a crime, was shot and killed. The officer's identity has not been released to the public, but reports suggest that he had served for 22 years with the Greensboro Police Department.

Suspects' Descriptions:

The suspects, both described as men in their early 20s, were the subjects of the canceled Blue Alert. The first suspect was last seen wearing a black hoodie, black sweatpants, black shoes, and a green or gray toboggan. The second suspect was wearing a jean jacket with fur, gray sweatpants, and tennis shoes.

Vehicle Details:

The suspects were last seen driving along I-40 westbound in a black Chevrolet Equinox with an NC license plate bearing the number KKA-4432. Notably, the vehicle featured a Hertz Car Sales plate on the front.

Blue Alert Purpose:

A Blue Alert is typically issued to aid law enforcement in the apprehension of violent criminals who have killed or seriously injured an officer in the line of duty. The cancellation of the alert, as of 8 p.m., suggests a shift in the status of the suspects, but authorities have not confirmed their capture.

Confirmation Pending:

As of now, neither the Greensboro Police Department nor the mayor has provided confirmation regarding the apprehension of the suspects. The community awaits further updates on the ongoing investigation into this tragic event.