Search continues for ‘dangerous’ man accused of shooting at deputy, NC sheriff says
A manhunt continues in eastern North Carolina for an “armed and dangerous” man accused of shooting at a deputy during a foot chase, according to investigators in Onslow County.
The deputy was injured during the confrontation, but was not struck by gunfire, officials say.
It happened around 8:15 p.m. Monday, when the deputy fronted Jarred Mackey of Richlands in a rural area west of Jacksonville, officials said.
“A deputy responded to the area of 1945 Pony Farm Road after receiving a call regarding a suspicious person. ... The individual, later identified as Jarred Louis Mackey, ... provided the deputy with a false name,” the sheriff’s office said.
“As the deputy continued the investigation, Mackey’s true identity was discovered. At that time, Mackey fled on foot, leading to a brief foot pursuit. During the chase, Mackey removed a handgun from his person and fired a shot toward the pursuing deputy.”
Investigators have not released details of how the deputy was injured during the encounter.
A manhunt was launched in southwestern Onslow County, including the Jacksonville Police Department and N.C. State Highway Patrol, officials said.
“Mackey is considered armed and dangerous and is believed to still be in possession of a handgun,” the sheriff’s office said. “The Onslow County Sheriff’s Office urges residents not to approach Mackey if he is seen.”
Mackey is a convicted felon with an outstanding warrant on drug charges, officials said. He is now facing additional charges of:
- Felony attempted first-degree murder
- Felony assault on a law enforcement officer with a firearm
- Assault by pointing a gun
- Two counts of resisting a public officer
- Assault on a government official
Onslow County is about a 125-mile drive southeast from downtown Raleigh.
This story was originally published June 9, 2026 at 12:14 PM with the headline "Search continues for ‘dangerous’ man accused of shooting at deputy, NC sheriff says."