A man shot three tree workers while they were clearing trees for a power company before being shot himself by police officers during his arrest, police said.
The incident began near Murphytown, North Carolina, located in the Green Mountain area of Yancey County, when local resident 36-year-old Lucas Wilson Murphy confronted contract workers clearing the right of way for the power company, according to a statement from the Yancey County Sheriff’s Office released on Wednesday.
“Mr. Murphy was armed during the confrontation with the tree service workers, and subsequently, three workers were shot,” authorities said in their statement. “All three victims sustained serious injuries and were transported to area hospitals where they are receiving medical treatment.”
Yancey County Deputies immediately responded to the scene and began to exchange gunfire with Murphy as they attempted to arrest him.
A man shot three tree workers while they were clearing trees for a power company before being shot himself by police officers during his arrest, police said.
Facebook / Yancey County Sheriff’s Office
“During this exchange, an officer-involved shooting took place, resulting in Mr. Murphy sustaining an injury,” police said. “He was then immediately taken into custody. Murphy was transported to an area hospital, where he is being treated for his injury.”
Authorities did not release any possible motives in the case but the Yancey County Sheriff’s Office and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation confirmed that they are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident.
“I want to start out by saying that my thoughts and prayers are with the Asplundh victims of today’s shooting for a speedy recovery. I am so proud of my incredible deputies and dispatchers! They did an awesome job responding and getting the situation under control quickly,” said Yancey County Sheriff Shane Hilliard in a post on social media following the shooting. “I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Heritage EMS, the out-of-county EMS departments, fire departments, rescue squad, and the other law enforcement agencies that sent personnel to assist.”
The conditions of the three workers are currently unknown and additional information will be released as it becomes available.
Three tree workers were shot while clearing a path for a power company in a quiet neighborhood, leaving residents shocked and concerned for their safety. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon when the workers were trimming trees near power lines on the outskirts of town.
According to witnesses, a man approached the workers and began firing shots at them without warning. The workers, who were unarmed and focused on their task, were caught off guard and sustained gunshot wounds. The suspect then fled the scene, leaving the workers in critical condition.
Police were quickly alerted to the situation and launched a manhunt for the suspect. After a tense standoff, the suspect was located and shot by police during his arrest. The suspect, who has not been identified, is currently in custody and facing multiple charges including attempted murder.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, but authorities are investigating whether there was any prior connection between the suspect and the victims. The incident has left the community shaken and questioning their safety while working outdoors.
In response to the shooting, the power company has halted all tree trimming operations until further notice to ensure the safety of their workers. They are also providing support and counseling services to the affected employees and their families.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the dangers that outdoor workers face on a daily basis. Tree workers, in particular, are often exposed to hazardous situations while performing their duties, such as working near power lines or in remote areas. It is essential for employers to prioritize safety protocols and provide proper training to their employees to prevent such incidents from occurring.
As the community comes to terms with this senseless act of violence, they are rallying together to support the injured workers and their families. A fundraiser has been set up to help cover medical expenses and support them during their recovery.
In conclusion, this incident highlights the importance of workplace safety and the need for vigilance when working in potentially dangerous environments. It also serves as a stark reminder of the risks that outdoor workers face on a daily basis. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families as they navigate this difficult time.
