CHARLOTTE — (Scroll down for video) – On Thurday, June 2, 2016, University City Division patrol officers responded a call for service at 10:14pm to the 7700 block of N. Tryon Street in reference to an assault with a deadly weapon. The caller stated that a male victim had been shot while riding a CATS bus and the suspect got off and began walking inbound on N. Tryon Street. As officers approached the scene they observed a subject walking inbound on N. Tryon Street who fit the description of the shooting suspect. The two officers exited their patrol vehicles, and engaged with the suspect. They determined him to be armed with a handgun. During the encounter, they perceived an imminent deadly threat and fired their service weapons striking the subject. Medic arrived on scene and pronounced the subject deceased. The deceased was identified as Rodney Rodriguez Smith, DOB: 11/02/1997.
In regards to the shooting on the CATS bus, detectives have determined that the victim and Mr. Smith were known to one another and this was not a random act of violence. Based on information and evidence gathered during the investigation, detectives determined that Smith fired at least one shot at officers and the officers fired multiple shots at Smith.
“The heroic actions of these officers very likely protected other members of our community from additional harm. This is yet another illustration of the commitment of our officers who serve selflessly to keep our community safe.” – Chief of Police Kerr Putney
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