The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction is mourning the tragic loss of two of its dedicated veterans, Sam Poloche and Alden Elliott, who tragically lost their lives in a shooting incident. Both Poloche and Elliott, with 14 years of service under their belts, were esteemed task force officers assigned to the U.S. Marshals Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force. Their untimely deaths have left a profound impact on their colleagues and the community they served.
Poloche and Elliott were valued members of the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, having joined after years of service as probation/parole officers. Poloche became part of the NCDAC Special Operations and Intelligence Unit in 2013, while Elliott joined in 2016. Their dedication to their work and passion for safeguarding communities were evident in their exemplary service throughout their careers.
The tragedy deepened with the loss of Officer Joshua Eyer, who succumbed to injuries sustained while assisting fellow officers in apprehending a suspect earlier in the day. Officer Eyer, a six-year veteran of the CMPD’s North Tryon Division and member of the 178th Recruit Class, demonstrated remarkable courage and selflessness in the line of duty. His sacrifice will forever be remembered, and his loved ones are held in the thoughts and prayers of the community.
In a statement, Todd Ishee, NC Secretary of Adult Correction, paid tribute to Poloche and Elliott, highlighting their unwavering dedication to their work and the profound impact they had on their colleagues and communities. Both officers leave behind grieving families, with Poloche survived by his wife and two children, and Elliott survived by his wife and one child.
The tragic incident also claimed the life of the suspect, Terry Clark Hughes, Jr., aged 39, who was pronounced dead by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. Hughes, wanted by CMPD for various charges including possession of a firearm by a felon and felony fleeing to elude in Lincoln County, North Carolina, was involved in the deaths of four officers. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with two individuals of interest currently in police custody for questioning.
As the community mourns the loss of these brave officers and comes to terms with the tragic events, there is an outpouring of support and solidarity for their families, colleagues, and loved ones. Their memory will be cherished, their service honored, and their sacrifices never forgotten. Let us join together in prayer, seeking healing for all those impacted by this heartbreaking loss.
