Authorities are investigating a shooting outside the Wilson County Courthouse in downtown Wilson, North Carolina, that left a 19-year-old woman in critical condition and injured two law enforcement officers on Monday morning.
According to the Wilson Police Department, the incident occurred at approximately 10:30 a.m. near the courthouse. Officers responding to reports of gunfire encountered the suspect, leading to an exchange of gunfire. During the confrontation, a Wilson police officer and a Wilson County sheriff’s deputy were struck by gunfire.
The injured police officer was transported to ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, where officials said the officer is expected to recover. Authorities have not released the current condition of the wounded sheriff’s deputy.
The 19-year-old woman who was shot was also transported to a hospital with critical injuries. Officials have not released her identity as the investigation continues.
Investigators later located the suspected gunman, identified as 21-year-old Abdul Karim Mustafa, a short distance from the scene. He was taken into custody without further incident.
According to police, preliminary findings indicate the shooting may have been an act of retaliation connected to an investigation into the fatal shooting of a teenager in Wilson approximately three weeks earlier. Authorities said the critically injured woman is related to the suspect in that earlier homicide investigation. Officials emphasized that the investigation remains active, and additional details may emerge as evidence is reviewed.
Mustafa is currently facing multiple criminal charges, including attempted first-degree murder. Additional charges may be filed as the investigation progresses.
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) is assisting the Wilson Police Department with processing the crime scene and conducting the ongoing investigation. A large section of downtown Wilson surrounding the courthouse remained closed for several hours as investigators collected evidence and interviewed witnesses.
Authorities have reassured residents that there is no ongoing threat to the public. Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is encouraged to contact law enforcement as officials continue working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting.
