Missing Fletcher Man Shot by Haywood County Deputy

Haywood County -- December 21, 2024: On Friday, at about 3:00 p.m., Haywood County Sheriff's Office deputies

responded to a suspicious person near Harmon Den Horse Camp. 

Michael Shope, 42, of Fletcher, North Carolina, was armed with a knife and attacked a Haywood County Deputy. 
Fortunately, the deputy's protective vest spared major injuries. The deputy then fired his service weapon, striking the subject while he continued to attack him.

Emergency Medical Services arrived and later pronounced Mr. Shope dead on the spot. This is still an active and ongoing investigation in collaboration with the Fletcher Police Department, have been actively searching for Shope since December 3rd of this year, and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. 

No other information will be shared at this time.

WNCTimes

Image: Haywood County Sheriff's Office