A suspect has been arrested in connection with the shooting death of a police officer in a North Carolina grocery store. The officer was shot and killed on Saturday morning at a Walmart store in Matthews, a suburb of Charlotte.
According to police, the officer was responding to a report of a shoplifter at the store when the suspect, later identified as 42-year-old Daniel Rieu, opened fire. The officer, who was not named, was struck and killed.
Police returned fire, striking Rieu, who was taken into custody. He is being treated at a local hospital for his injuries.
The officer who was killed was a 15-year veteran of the Matthews Police Department. He is the 14th law enforcement officer to be killed in the line of duty in North Carolina this year.
The motive behind the shooting is not yet clear, and an investigation is ongoing. Police are reviewing surveillance footage and conducting interviews with witnesses to determine what led up to the shooting.
Rieu has been charged with first-degree murder and is being held without bond. He is expected to face additional charges in the coming days.
The Matthews Police Department is offering a reward for information leading to the conviction of Rieu. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the department or Crimestoppers.
The shooting is a devastating reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day. It is a senseless act of violence that has left a family and a community in mourning.
The officer’s death is a tragic reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers to keep our communities safe. Our thoughts and prayers are with the officer’s family and the Matthews Police Department during this difficult time.
