A deadly officer-involved shooting in Hamilton is under active investigation by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI). The incident took place during an hours-long standoff on North Front Street, directly across from the town hall, early Thursday morning.
While authorities have yet to officially release the identity of the deceased, several neighbors told WITN the man was Don Matthews. Officials have not confirmed that information. According to dispatch records, the situation escalated when shots were fired from within a building, prompting deputies to call in Greenville Police Department’s Emergency Response Team at approximately 12:15 a.m.
The standoff reportedly began around 8:45 p.m. Wednesday, following reports of a silver Chevy pickup truck driven by an allegedly intoxicated man armed with a shotgun. Witnesses said the vehicle had been circling the neighborhood before the driver entered a building on North Front Street. Around 9:15 p.m., the suspect briefly appeared at the back of the building, only to retreat inside. Minutes later, he exited the front door armed, then returned again, heightening tensions.
At around 12:15 a.m., the first gunshots rang out from inside the building. Additional shots followed, prompting authorities to intensify their response. The Greenville police team arrived and continued to manage the scene through the early morning hours. At approximately 5:30 a.m., officers fatally shot the suspect. An emergency medicine physician attached to the response team provided immediate aid, but the man died at the scene.
The Greenville officer involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative duty, which is standard protocol during such investigations. The SBI is leading an independent inquiry to determine whether the use of deadly force was justified and to establish a clear timeline of events. Investigators will review body camera footage, statements from officers, and other evidence as part of their review.
Residents of the small town remain shaken as they await more information. With the investigation still ongoing, law enforcement is urging the public to remain patient and allow the process to unfold. Meanwhile, community members have expressed concern over the tragic outcome and are calling for transparency as details continue to emerge.
