Charlotte, North Carolina – Hundreds of law enforcement officers gathered to honor one of their own after a tragic shootout left four officers dead. The incident stemmed from a confrontation with felon Terry Clark Hughes, who fired over 100 rounds at officers from a high-powered rifle before being fatally shot.
Among the victims were officers Samuel Poloche and William Elliot from the North Carolina Department of Corrections, as well as Deputy U.S. Marshal Thomas Weeks. The fourth victim, Joshua Eyer, was with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. A processional to honor Eyer started at CMPD headquarters and ended at the First Baptist Church in uptown Charlotte for a memorial service.
The emotional proceedings saw large crowds of officers coming together to pay their respects. Bystanders carried American flags and ‘Blue Lives Matters’ versions of the Stars and Stripes. Inside the church, heartbreaking photos captured the moment when Eyer’s three-year-old son waved to a picture of his deceased father, as his mother, Ashley Eyer, held him close.
During the funeral, Ashley delivered a moving speech, expressing her deep love for Joshua and highlighting his role as a devoted father. She emphasized the importance of honoring his legacy through their son, Andrew. The community came together to support the grieving family and to remember the sacrifices made by these brave officers.
The tragic events unfolded after police attempted to arrest Hughes, leading to a violent exchange that was captured by a neighbor on video. The footage showed the intense gun battle between law enforcement officers and the gunmen, revealing the dangers that officers face in the line of duty.
Despite the challenges and risks involved, officers showed immense courage and dedication as they worked to protect the community. The loss of these four officers serves as a somber reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement personnel every day. The community continues to mourn their passing and honor their memory, ensuring that their legacy lives on.