FARMVILLE, N.C. — A North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP) member shot and struck a suspect Saturday morning after they allegedly aimed a firearm at the NCSHP member following a high-speed chase.
According to a release from the NCSHP, a member saw a burgundy 2023 Kia Carnival traveling east on I-587 near the Wilson and Greene County line at a high rate of speed around 7 a.m. Their radar allegedly obtained a clock of 90 mph in a 70 mph zone.
The driver failed to stop when the member-initiated emergency equipment, initiating a pursuit. The pursuit went east on I-587 until the driver exited on US-258 and went South into Farmville.
The vehicle made an abrupt stop and the driver fled on foot at Bynum Drive.
The NCSHP member pursued the driver on foot and into an open field where the suspect stopped, turned and pointed a handgun at the NCSHP member.
The member fired, striking the suspect multiple times in the leg.
The suspect was then secured and aid was given to him immediately. A female passenger surrendered without incident and wasn't injured.
The suspect was taken to ECU Health Medical Center by EMS where he's receiving care for his injuries. The NCSHP member was uninjured.
The suspect, 35-year-old Kenneth Kinard of Virginia Beach, had multiple warrants out for his arrest in Virginia including contempt of court for probation violation, possession of schedule 1 and 2 drugs, 3 counts of felony grand larceny.
A firearm, illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia were found at the scene. Charges are forthcoming.
The NCSHP member was placed on administrative duty while an investigation takes place.