Deputy Assaulted, Reward for Arrest, Conviction of Attacker

Rutherford County -- July 17, 2023: At approximately 8 a.m., July 10, 2023, a Cleveland County sheriff's deputy investigating a suspicious vehicle was ambushed on Curt Ledford Road by a man who attacked him with a pipe.

After a struggle broke out, the deputy was injured. He was transported to the hospital for treatment of injuries that are not life-threatening. According to rumors, the deputy was wounded. That is not the situation. He was alert and engaged in conversation at the site. His relatives have been informed. We appreciate the thoughts and prayers of our community members.

The suspect is believed to be a Caucasian male over 6 feet tall with full-sleeve tattoos and a possible left-side neck tattoo. Work boots, black trousers, and a white T-shirt were on his feet.
The suspect vehicle was a four-door, beige, or tan Buick with a squared-off front end. The driver's door may contain bullet wounds.

Rutherford County Sheriff's Office Update July 11, 2023:

The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office has enlisted the assistance of SLED Forensic Artist in reference to the assault on Captain Seagle. Their artist has developed this rendering of our suspect that is not a photograph, however, should closely resemble our suspect. If you believe you may know this person please contact us. He is 6’ tall in the 30’s age range. With tattoos on both arms and his neck.

If anyone has any information about this incident, please contact Cleveland County Communications Center with information at 704-484-4822.

Rutherford County Sheriff's Office Update July 12, 2023: 

Thank you for the numerous tips that we have received.
We would like to give you more information about the tattoo on his neck. It is being described as a poorly done, "Punisher" style skull tattoo. This is the ONLY tattoo on his neck.
The suspect does have multiple tattoos on both arms.
Again, we do appreciate the support we have received from the community. If you have any information, please contact Cleveland County Communications Center at 704-484-4822.

July 14, 2023: Reward Offered for Arrest & Conviction

The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office has enlisted the assistance of SLED Forensic Artist in reference to the assault on Captain Seagle. Their artist has developed this rendering of our suspect that is not a photograph, however, should closely resemble our suspect. If you believe you may know this person please contact us. He is 6’ tall in the 30’s age range. With tattoos on both arms and his neck.

July 17, 2023: The Cleveland County Sheriff's Office is thankful for the outpouring of support from our community.
At this time, we believe the car pictured below is very similar to the body style of the one from the incident. The color of the car from the incident was brown/tan, not what you see pictured.

WNCTimes