On April 29, 2024, a U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force serving active felony warrants at a residence on Galway Drive in Charlotte’s North Tryon Division was met with deadly gunfire. Thirty-nine-year-old Terry Clark Hughes Jr. opened fire with an AR-15 rifle as officers approached; eight officers were shot in the confrontation. Task Force Officer Samuel Poloche, 42, a 14-year veteran of the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, was among the four officers killed. Deputy U.S.

Marshal Thomas Weeks Jr., CMPD Officer Joshua Eyer, and Officer William Alden Elliott also died. Officers returned fire after Hughes exited the home; he was fatally struck in the front yard. Investigators later reported that ballistic evidence and the investigation found Hughes acted alone and that all rounds striking officers came from his rifle, with no friendly fire. Vigils and memorials followed; Officer Poloche is remembered for his dedication and commitment to protecting the community.

If anyone has information about Officer Poloche or that operation, please come forward.