Tragedy Strikes at Betty G. Ross Park — Officer-Involved Shooting Leaves One Dead, Another Fighting for Life
LINCOLNTON, N.C. — A violent and deeply disturbing incident unfolded Sunday afternoon at Betty G. Ross Park, leaving a community reeling and law enforcement launching a full-scale investigation. A domestic dispute escalated into a life-threatening crisis, ending with one person critically wounded and a male suspect fatally shot by responding officers.
At approximately 1:27 PM on June 29, 2025, Lincolnton Police responded to reports of a domestic shooting at the popular park located at 800 Madison Street. Upon arrival, officers were met with a gruesome and chaotic scene—a female victim had been shot multiple times and lay gravely injured.
Situation Escalates Rapidly:
What began as a domestic violence call erupted into a deadly confrontation. Officers were forced to engage a male subject, leading to an officer-involved shooting. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. Thankfully, no officers were physically harmed during the intense exchange.
The female victim was rushed to a local trauma center in critical condition, fighting for her life. Her identity and current status remain undisclosed as medical professionals work to stabilize her.
State-Level Investigation Launched:
In accordance with North Carolina protocol for officer-involved shootings, the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) has taken full control of the case. Their agents are now working alongside Lincolnton PD to reconstruct the sequence of events and determine what exactly led to the violent confrontation.
Unified Law Enforcement Response:
The Lincolnton Police Department expressed sincere appreciation to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, and the SBI for their swift coordination and unwavering support during this high-stakes emergency.
What We Know So Far:
- Time: Around 1:27 PM, Sunday, June 29
- Location: Betty G. Ross Park, 800 Madison Street
- Victim: Female, shot multiple times, currently in critical condition
- Suspect: Male, shot and killed by police
- Police Status: No officers physically injured
- Investigative Status: Ongoing, led by the NC SBI
Community Shaken:
This devastating incident shattered the quiet of a summer afternoon at one of Lincolnton’s most frequented public spaces. A park typically filled with families and laughter became the scene of horrific violence and desperate life-saving efforts. Local leaders have since urged calm and compassion, asking the public to support one another and refrain from speculation until the full facts emerge.
Call for Witnesses:
Authorities are encouraging anyone who may have witnessed the events or captured footage near the park during the time of the incident to come forward. Your information could be critical in helping piece together the full narrative of what transpired.
This is a developing and emotionally charged story, and further updates will be issued as the investigation progresses. The identities of those involved have not yet been released, pending family notification.
Our thoughts are with the injured victim, her family, and all those affected by this traumatic event. We extend our deepest respect and support to the first responders who placed themselves in harm’s way to protect others.
Stay alert, stay informed, and support one another.