LINCOLN COUNTY, N.C. — A man is dead after a traffic stop led to an officer-involved shooting in Lincolnton early Saturday morning.
Deputies from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office said they stopped Michael Shane Carver, 38, who was driving a Honda Accord, around 12:19 a.m. on Woolie Road.
Officials said Carver tried to drive off while Deputy J.E. Brown was inside the open driver’s side door, dragging him through a field.
The sheriff’s office said Brown drew his gun while being dragged and shot Carver. The deputy was thrown from the car and the car kept moving until it hit a tree.
Officials said Carver died at the scene despite efforts to help him.
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Residents said that stretch of Lincoln County along Woolie Road is usually very quiet. So all the activity got the attention of neighbors like Derek Curl.
“I was about to go to bed. Finishing up a movie. Saw, uh, heard the siren from the sheriff about to pull him over. Then the next thing I know, I heard gunshots. And then I came outside and just saw all the police cars, ambulances and the fire department,” Curl said. “It’s tragic man. For the officer, family involved you know. That’s just a bad situation.”
Another neighbor said she was surprised by the incident.
“It’s been a quiet area. We couldn’t believe that happened,” neighbor Barbara Bynum said. “We see police coming up and down the road. Which is a great thing. We like them patrolling the area but shots? Someone dying? You know, three doors up? That is crazy.”
Deputies say Carver, of Lincolnton, had an outstanding warrant and a long criminal history.
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has body camera video of the shooting.
The State Bureau of Investigation is looking into the case. The deputy, who was not injured, has been placed on administrative leave while the investigation continues.
Check back on wsoctv.com for updates.
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