Manhunt continues as suspect in Columbus County deputy shooting remains on the run

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — A Columbus County sheriff’s deputy is in stable condition after being shot following a pursuit Wednesday morning, while authorities continue searching for the suspect.

According to an update from the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began around 7:53 a.m. when a deputy activated emergency equipment in an attempt to stop a vehicle.

The sheriff’s office said the driver fled, leading deputies on a pursuit before losing control of the vehicle and crashing.

Authorities said the suspect then got out of the vehicle and fled on foot.

A Columbus County sheriff’s deputy later encountered the suspect and an altercation occurred. The deputy suffered a gunshot wound during the altercation, according to the sheriff’s office.

The suspect fled again on foot.

The injured deputy was taken to a nearby hospital and was listed in stable condition as of late Wednesday morning.

The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office and neighboring law enforcement agencies are searching for the suspect in the eastern part of the county. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation is assisting in the search alongside 75 officers, deputies, and state troopers.

The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office said it is among the agencies assisting with the search near the Brunswick-Columbus county line. This search involves a heavy police presence and helicopters.

Authorities are asking people to avoid Delco Prosper Road while the search continues. Earlier, the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office said law enforcement activity was concentrated near Delco Prosper Road and Livingston Chapel Road in Columbus County.

Residents in the area and surrounding communities are being urged to secure their property and vehicles and call 911 if they see suspicious people or activity.

Authorities have not released the identity of the injured deputy or information identifying or describing the suspect.

The search remains active.