Inmate’s Escape Leads to Deadly Shooting of NC Detention Officer

MURPHY, N.C. – A federal inmate shot and killed a detention officer with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office during a bold escape attempt at a western North Carolina medical clinic on Monday, leading to a regional manhunt that ended with his arrest in Macon County.

Officer Shot with His Own Weapon During Clinic Visit

According to Cherokee County Sheriff Dustin Smith, 48-year-old inmate Kelvin Simmons was brought to an orthopedics office in Murphy for treatment when a physical altercation occurred. During the struggle, Simmons reportedly took Detention Officer Francisco Paul Flattes’ firearm and used it to fatally shoot him.

The incident unfolded rapidly, with Simmons then fleeing into the parking lot and stealing a vehicle that had just arrived at the scene. Law enforcement immediately issued alerts across neighboring counties.

Suspect Captured After Vehicle Pursuit and Standoff

Emergency officials in Clay County quickly notified authorities in Macon County, where Simmons was believed to be heading via U.S. Route 64. Deputies located the stolen vehicle and executed a traffic stop that resulted in a brief standoff. Simmons was arrested without further incident, and no additional injuries were reported.

Sheriff Smith confirmed that Simmons was already facing charges for bank robbery and an October 2024 escape. He is now expected to face an additional first-degree murder charge.

Fallen Officer Remembered by Colleagues and State Officials

Detention Officer Flattes, 56, had served with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office for four years. Sheriff Smith, visibly emotional during a press conference, called Monday “one of the worst days” of his career. Flattes’ wife is also employed at the county’s detention center.

Governor Josh Stein has ordered all U.S. and North Carolina flags to be lowered to half-staff at state facilities in honor of Officer Flattes. The tribute is expected to remain in place until sunset Tuesday. In a public statement, Stein praised Flattes’ sacrifice and extended condolences to his family and colleagues.

“I was deeply saddened to learn of Francisco Paul Flattes’ tragic murder. Our law enforcement officers go above and beyond the call of duty… Yesterday, Officer Flattes paid the ultimate price,” said Gov. Stein.

Community in Mourning After Tragic Loss

As western North Carolina processes the tragedy, local residents, law enforcement, and public officials continue to mourn the loss of an officer who was respected by peers and community members alike. A second officer involved in the incident suffered non-life-threatening injuries and is recovering.

What are your thoughts on the risks detention officers face during medical transports? Share your voice with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.