Moore sheriff: Suspect killed during officer-involved shooting did not fire at deputies
A man who was killed last month by law enforcement officers called to his Moore County home apparently did not fire his weapon, contradicting initial official reports that he had starting shooting at the officers when they arrived at the scene.
The State Bureau of Investigation has been looking into the events surrounding the death of Arthur Kenzie Garner, 33, who was killed on July 28 when officers arrived at his house early Saturday morning following a call for help from the residence.
The law enforcement officers were called to 106 Forest Place Drive in Aberdeen shortly before 3 a.m. about a domestic dispute.
Investigators said immediately after the shooting that when deputies arrived at the scene, Garner began firing at the law enforcement officers, who returned fire and killed him.
On Saturday, however, Moore County Sheriff Neil Godfrey confirmed to WRAL News that the initial report was wrong.
"At this time, we do not believe that Garner ever fired at our deputies," the sheriff said in an emailed statement. "However, based upon statements made by Garner’s father, he did attempt to shoot his weapon."
The sheriff also said Garner's father "found unfired ammunition that he has stated to the media show signs that the firing pen had struck the bullets. "
The sheriff has previously identified the four deputies as Sgt. Sean Ballard, Corporal Dustin Hussey, Stephanie Griffin and Justin Mack. As a matter of routine following all fatal officer-involved shootings, all of the deputies have been placed on administrative duty while the SBI completes it investigation into the matter.
Aberdeen police Chief Tim Wenzel has said one of his officers, identified as Officer Austin Whatley, was at the scene when the incident occurred but he did not fire his weapon.
And Pinehurst police have said Sgt. Jason Caulder and Officer Michael Muse were at the scene when the shooting occurred.
Garner's family told WRAL News that they called 911 after he had a fight with his girlfriend, which began escalating.
"When we called 911 that night, it was to help us, not kill him," said Arthur Garner's mother, Terry Garner.
Family members said Arthur Garner never fired a shot.
"He was my son. He was no different than anyone else's," Terry Garner said through tears."I know he was screaming, 'Mom, mom." That's the last I heard my son's voice, was him screaming for me."
Godfrey said his office plans to meet Monday to "finalize" its administrative investigation.
It was not clear when the SBI investigation would be complete.
