Armed and dangerous suspect in Tabor City captured after two-day search

TABOR CITY, NC (WWAY) — After an extensive two-day search, authorities say a wanted man is now in custody thanks to a coordinated law enforcement effort in Columbus County.

Christopher Strickland was successfully located and taken into custody by a member of the Sheriff’s Office Heavy Enforcement Action Team, or H.E.A.T., on Tuesday.

Strickland was wanted by the Tabor City Police Department. He was considered armed and dangerous which prompted a heightened concern for public safety during the search.

Officials say the operation was the result of relentless work, coordination, and determination from multiple deputies and specialized units.

Tabor City Chief of Police Kevin Fowler told WWAY that Strickland was caught off Canal Street.

He was taken to Columbus Regional Hospital to be checked out and examined. Once he is released from the hospital, he will be going to the Columbus County Jail, Fowler said.

“We want to show our appreciation to the community as well as law enforcement partners in the county which helped us to capture the suspect,” Fowler said.