Officer-Involved Shooting Unfolds During Narcotics Warrant in Wilmington

Wilmington NC: In a tense morning operation, members of the Cape Fear Regional Special Teams SWAT Unit were met with gunfire while attempting to execute a narcotics-related warrant in Wilmington’s 11th Street area earlier today.

The Wilmington Police Department (WPD) initiated the operation at approximately 5:42 a.m. in the 900 block of S. 11th Street. As officers commenced their approach, utilizing loudspeakers to communicate with the suspect, chaos erupted when the suspect opened fire without warning. Despite the swift escalation, the WPD officers managed to deploy a distraction device, aimed at gaining control of the situation.

During the exchange of gunfire, one WPD officer was struck in his ballistic vest but fortunately sustained no serious injuries. Reacting to the imminent threat, the SWAT team members returned fire, critically wounding the suspect, identified as 27-year-old Malik Samuell Thompson of Wilmington.

Thompson, now in critical condition, was swiftly transported to the Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center for treatment. The severity of the situation prompted the involvement of SWAT team medics who administered lifesaving aid until EMS arrived.

The incident unfolded amidst the execution of the narcotics warrant, resulting in the discovery of a substantial cache of illegal substances and a firearm at the scene. Authorities seized 416 dosage units of Fentanyl, 18.75 grams of Cocaine, and 76 dosage units of Xanax. Notably, Thompson, the suspect, boasts a prior criminal record including charges related to assault and firearms.

As customary procedure dictates, the officers involved in the discharge of their weapons have been placed on paid administrative leave pending further investigation. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation has been called in to conduct a thorough inquiry into the incident, adhering to standard protocols for officer-involved shootings.

Wilmington Police Department spokesperson emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, withholding further details at this juncture. However, they assured the public of prompt updates as new information surfaces.

The unfolding events underscore the inherent risks faced by law enforcement officers in executing their duties, navigating complex and potentially dangerous scenarios in the pursuit of justice. Stay tuned for further developments as this story continues to evolve.