Investigation Underway After Violent Encounter
Authorities in North Carolina are investigating a shooting incident that occurred on Thursday evening, resulting in injuries to both a law enforcement officer and a suspect.
The confrontation took place on East River Road near Louisburg during a pursuit involving Franklin County sheriff's deputies and 40-year-old Jermaine Anthony Branch. Gunfire was exchanged between the parties.
Deputy Taylor Lucas sustained a gunshot wound during the altercation. Sheriff Kevin White later commented on the severity of the attack, stating on Facebook that Branch "came within a fraction of a millimeter of ending Deputy Taylor Lucas' life. Deputy Lucas was shot at point-blank range, directly in the heart of his chest. Were it not for his breastplate, he would have died instantly."
Both injured individuals were transported to medical facilities for treatment. Officials have confirmed that Deputy Lucas has been discharged from the hospital.
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the event and will provide updates as their inquiry progresses.
