A normally quiet neighborhood in Hoke County, North Carolina, was thrown into chaos Thursday morning after a 13-year-old boy, accused of killing his grandmother, was shot and killed by deputies.
Authorities had been dispatched for a wellness check at a home on Pearce Place in Raeford, where the tragic events unfolded.
Officials identified the victim as 68-year-old Connie Linen, who was found unresponsive inside her residence around 9:20 a.m.
Emergency personnel pronounced her dead at the scene.
Investigators quickly singled out her grandson as a suspect and filed first-degree murder charges.
Local and regional law enforcement agencies joined in efforts to locate the teen, ABC 11 reports.
The teenager was later found inside a vehicle reportedly stolen from his grandmother, parked behind an abandoned mobile home on Black Road in Cameron.
When deputies approached, he fled on foot, crossing the street and entering a wooded area.
During the pursuit, authorities said he picked up a two-by-four board and advanced toward a deputy. The officer fired in response, fatally wounding the teen.
Medical personnel attempted resuscitation, but he was pronounced dead at the scene, according to The Blaze.
Hoke County Sheriff Roderick Virgil addressed the incident in a statement.
“This has been a tragic and emotional situation for everyone involved,” he said.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Ms. Linen, as well as the family of the juvenile. We ask that our community come together with compassion and understanding as we all process this difficult event.”
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation has launched a standard review of the officer-involved shooting, following protocol for cases in which law enforcement uses deadly force.
The investigation will examine both the circumstances surrounding Linen’s death and the deputies’ response during the pursuit.
Neighbors described the family as close-knit and expressed shock at the events.
Bailey Arndt, who recently moved to the area, said she was stunned.
“It’s so cliche to say that, but you don’t expect to see it on your own street,” she said.
Clifford Covill, another resident, praised Linen and her grandchildren, noting, “Everybody seemed pretty happy. I never once saw any of the kids angry about anything. They just seemed like happy, normal kids.”
Deborah Decker recalled that law enforcement had blocked streets throughout the day, creating a tense atmosphere in the neighborhood.
“Police cars all lit up, with yellow tape stretched across the street—no one was allowed to leave or enter,” she said, highlighting the extraordinary response by authorities.
The incident highlights the difficult challenges officers face when minors are involved in violent acts, especially when armed and posing immediate threats.
Law enforcement agencies have emphasized their commitment to transparency and adherence to protocol as they review the events, aiming to provide clarity for both families and the community.
As the investigation continues, residents are grappling with grief and shock over the sudden losses of life.
Authorities are coordinating ongoing efforts to ensure a thorough review of the grandmother’s death and the circumstances surrounding the officer-involved shooting, while emphasizing the importance of community support and understanding during this difficult time.
