YANCEY COUNTY, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Three victims were injured in a shooting Wednesday afternoon in Yancey County, and the sheriff’s office says a suspect was injured in a subsequent officer-involved shooting.
The Yancey County Sheriff’s Office says the incident began when 36-year-old Lucas Murphy allegedly confronted contract tree service workers who were trying to clear the right of way for a power company on Murpheytown Road in the Green Mountain area. Officials say Murphy was armed during the confrontation with the crew and he is accused of shooting three workers.
All three victims sustained serious injuries and were transported to area hospitals where they are receiving medical treatment.
When deputies responded to the scene, they encountered gunfire as they were trying to apprehend Murphy, the sheriff’s office says in an updated release.
“During this exchange, an officer-involved shooting took place, resulting in Mr. Murphy sustaining an injury,” the sheriff’s office says. “He was then immediately taken into custody. Murphy was transported to an area hospital, where he is being treated for his injury.”
The Yancey County Sheriff’s Office and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident.
Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
This is a developing story. Check back at 828newsNOW.com for updates.