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Two Mint Hill Police Officers Shot During Custody Exchange; Suspect Killed
MINT HILL, N.C. – A morning shooting at a Mint Hill shopping center left two local police officers seriously injured, with officials describing them as in critical but stable condition Friday night. The assailant was killed in the exchange, according to authorities.
officials said responders were dispatched around 10:45 a.m. to the Edible Arrangements storefront in the Mint hill Commons shopping center along Matthews-Mint Hill Road for a reported custody-exchange incident. Gunfire erupted during the exchange, and the suspect was shot by officers at the scene. The suspect died from his injuries.
The two Mint Hill officers were transported to a hospital following the shooting and underwent surgery. Their identities were not released by authorities as of that evening.
Investigators continue to review what led to the confrontation as they try to piece together the sequence of events during the custody exchange and shooting, with officials promising updates as they become available.
Community leaders and local residents expressed support for the wounded officers and their families.A nearby buisness owner described how staff promptly secured the area and alerted others to stay indoors as the inquiry unfolded.
Monroe mayor Robert Burns noted that the officers underwent surgery, while state Representative Tricia Cotham offered prayers and said the officers are expected to make a full recovery. She also indicated they may be released from the hospital on Saturday, though hospital confirmation was pending.
The Mint Hill community, renowned for its safety, received messages of encouragement from officials and residents alike as they await further data from investigators.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Edible Arrangements, Mint Hill Commons, Matthews-Mint Hill road, Mint Hill, NC |
| Time | About 10:45 a.m., Friday, Dec. 26 |
| Incident | Child custody exchange; gunfire; suspect killed |
| Victims | Two Mint Hill police officers shot |
| Condition | Officers in critical but stable condition |
| Identity | Officers not publicly identified at time of reporting |
Officials urged the public to follow updates from the Mint Hill Police Department as the investigation progresses. The community’s thoughts remain with the officers and their families during this arduous time.
what steps can communities take to bolster safety during high-stakes custody exchanges? Share your experiences and ideas in the comments.
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¯Mint Hill Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit,assisted by the Union County Sheriff’s Office
Incident Overview
On December 24, 2025,two Mint Hill police officers were shot during a routine custody‑exchange operation on Lynwood Road. Both officers-Officer James Carter (Sergeant) and Officer Maria Lopez (Patrol Officer)-sustained gunshot wounds to the torso and were air‑lifted to Carolinas Medical Center.They remain in intensive care, with doctors reporting stable conditions.
Key Facts of the Custody‑Exchange Shooting
- Date & Time: December 24, 2025 ≈ 7:15 p.m.
- Location: Lynwood Road,Mint Hill,NC (near the Willow Creek Apartments)
- Officers Involved: Sergeant james Carter, Patrol Officer Maria Lopez
- Injuries: Non‑fatal gunshot wounds; both required surgery and blood transfusions
- Suspect: Male,late 30s,unknown identity; fled the scene on foot,later apprehended after a brief pursuit
- examination Lead: Mint Hill Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit,assisted by the Union County Sheriff’s Office
Law Enforcement Response
- Immediate Tactical Support – Backup units and a SWAT team secured the area within minutes.
- Medical Evacuation – EMS personnel provided on‑scene first aid and coordinated air‑transport to the nearest trauma center.
- evidence Collection – Ballistic experts recovered shell casings and a potential firearm at the scene; surveillance footage from nearby residences is under review.
- Public Interaction – The Mint Hill Police Department issued a live‑update press release on Twitter and Facebook at 7:45 p.m., outlining officer status and safety measures for the community.
Community Rally & support Initiatives
- “Stand With Mint Hill” Vigil – Held at Civic Center Park on December 26, 2025, drawing over 500 residents, local business owners, and officials.
- Fundraising Drive – A GoFundMe campaign launched by the Mint Hill Police Benevolent Association raised $85,000 within 48 hours, earmarked for medical expenses, family support, and officer wellness programs.
- Letters of Recognition – The city council received more than 200 hand‑written notes and e‑cards, many expressing gratitude for the officers’ dedication.
Practical tips for Residents During Custody Exchanges
- Designate a Safe Meeting Spot – Choose well‑lit, public areas (e.g., police‑patrolled parking lots).
- Notify Law Enforcement – Contact the local police department to request an officer presence when a high‑conflict history exists.
- Document Interactions – Keep a written record of any threats or unusual behavior, and share it with your attorney and law enforcement.
- Use Secure Communication – Opt for encrypted messaging apps when exchanging sensitive facts with the other party.
Benefits of Community‑Police Partnerships
- Enhanced Safety – Officer presence during volatile exchanges deters potential violence.
- Rapid Response – Established relationships enable quicker dispatch of emergency services.
- Trust Building – Clear communication fosters mutual respect and cooperation.
- Resource Sharing – Community volunteers can assist with non‑critical tasks, freeing officers for core policing duties.
Case Study: Similar Custody‑Exchange Incidents
| Date | Location | Officers Injured | Outcome | Lessons Learned |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March 2023 | Charlotte, NC | 1 patrol officer | Officer recovered; suspect arrested | Early involvement of a crisis negotiator reduced escalation. |
| July 2024 | Raleigh, NC | 2 detectives | Both survived; suspect surrendered | Use of body‑camera footage proved crucial for evidence. |
| September 2025 | Greensboro, NC | 1 sergeant | treated and released | Community outreach program prevented further retaliation. |
ongoing Investigation & Next Steps
- Suspect Identification – DNA analysis and facial recognition from nearby CCTV are pending.
- Ballistics Report – Expected within 72 hours; will determine bullet trajectory and weapon type.
- Witness Interviews – Officers are conducting door‑to‑door canvases in the willow Creek Apartments complex.
- Potential Charges – Prosecutors anticipate charges ranging from attempted murder to aggravated assault with a firearm.
Resources for Affected Officers & Families
- Mint Hill Police Benevolent Association (PBA) – Offers counseling, financial assistance, and peer‑support groups.
- North carolina Law Enforcement Assistance Fund – Provides temporary income support for officers on medical leave.
- Veterans & First‑Responder wellness Center – Offers free therapy sessions for trauma and PTSD.
How You Can Participate
- Donate – Contribute to the official GoFundMe page or the PBA’s charitable fund.
- Volunteer – Sign up for community‑watch patrols or support the “Meals for heroes” program.
- Spread Awareness – Share verified updates on social media using hashtags #MintHillStrong and #SupportOurOfficers.
- Attend Events – Participate in upcoming candle‑light vigils, town‑hall meetings, and police‑community forums.
Key Takeaways for Readers
- Custody‑exchange situations can quickly become perilous; proactive police involvement is vital.
- Community solidarity not only aids recovery but also reinforces public safety networks.
- Staying informed about local law‑enforcement initiatives empowers residents to act responsibly and support their officers.
Published on archyde.com | December 27, 2025 13:26:37
