Tragically, two of its devoted veterans, Alden Elliott and Sam Poloche, were killed in a shooting incident; the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction is mourning their loss. Poloche and Elliott were both highly respected task force officers stationed in the United States Marshals Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force, and they had both served for fourteen years. Everyone they worked with and the community they were a part of feels the effects of their sudden deaths.
After many years of dedicated work as probation/parole officers, Poloche and Elliott were esteemed members of the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction. The NCDAC Special Operations and Intelligence Unit welcomed Poloche in 2013 and Elliott in 2016. Throughout their careers, their excellent service demonstrated their dedication to their work and love for protecting communities.
Officer Joshua Eyer’s death added tragic depth to the situation; he had been hurt earlier in the day while helping other officers arrest a suspect. Officer Eyer, a member of the 178th Recruit Class and a six-year veteran of the CMPD’s North Tryon Division, displayed extraordinary bravery and altruism while serving his community. His family and friends are always in the community’s prayers and thoughts as they commemorate his sacrifice.
Todd Ishee, the North Carolina Secretary of Adult Correction, released a statement in honor of Poloche and Elliott that praised their steadfast commitment to their jobs and the significant influence they had on their coworkers and neighborhoods. Poloche leaves behind a wife and two children, while Elliott leaves behind a wife and one child; both officers’ families are suffering.
The 39-year-old suspect, Terry Clark Hughes, Jr., was also killed in the terrible occurrence; the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department declared him dead. Four cops lost their lives because Hughes, who is wanted by the Charlotte Metro Police Department on many offenses, including felony fleeing to escape and firearm possession by a felon in Lincoln County, North Carolina, was involved. Two people who are considered to be involved in the event are now in police custody pending questioning as part of the ongoing investigation.
There has been an overwhelming display of solidarity and support for the families, coworkers, and loved ones of these courageous cops as the community grieves and copes with the terrible occurrences. Their service is revered, their memory is kept alive, and their sacrifices are never forgotten. Please join me in praying for the comfort and strength of all who have been touched by this tragic loss.