Armed Man Fatally Shot by Deputy After Standoff in Fayetteville Identified
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) has identified the man fatally shot by a Cumberland County Sheriff’s deputy as Craig Handzel, a resident of Pitt County. The incident unfolded Sunday night following a tense standoff in a residential neighborhood near Claude Lee Road, close to Fayetteville Regional Airport.
Authorities say the situation began when deputies responded to a call regarding a distraught and reportedly armed individual. Upon arrival, law enforcement encountered Handzel, who was allegedly armed and refusing to cooperate. Over the course of the standoff, negotiators attempted to de-escalate the situation. However, according to preliminary reports, the encounter ended in gunfire when deputies perceived a threat to themselves or others.
Handzel was struck and later pronounced dead at the scene. The deputy involved has been placed on administrative leave, per standard protocol, while the SBI continues its investigation into the shooting.
No deputies were injured during the incident. Officials have not released details regarding the nature of the initial call or whether Handzel had a known history with law enforcement.
Residents in the area were briefly advised to shelter in place during the standoff and have since been cleared. Community leaders are urging patience as the investigation unfolds.
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