BREAKING: Winston-Salem Police Officer Fatally Shoots Armed Suspect During Struggle; Officer Struck in Ballistic Vest
WINSTON-SALEM, NC — June 27, 2025 — A suspect is dead and a police officer narrowly escaped serious injury following a tense and violent confrontation in Winston-Salem on Friday evening. According to authorities, 34-year-old Antonio Betancourt was shot and killed after allegedly firing a weapon during a struggle with officers on Nancy Lane, not far from I-40 and Thomasville Road.
The incident began around 6:00 p.m., when Winston-Salem Police were dispatched to a residence following a report of a disturbance involving weapons. Upon arrival, two officers encountered Betancourt outside the home and attempted to de-escalate the situation.
“Officers engaged in verbal negotiation efforts for an extended period,” police officials stated. “When they moved to take the suspect into custody, he resisted and a physical altercation followed.”
Gunfire Erupts During Arrest
During the struggle, police say Betancourt produced a firearm and discharged it, striking one officer in the chest area. Fortunately, the officer was wearing a ballistic vest, which prevented life-threatening injuries.
The second officer on scene returned fire, striking Betancourt. Emergency medical services responded to the scene, but Betancourt was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
Suspect Had Active Warrants
Authorities confirmed that Betancourt had multiple active warrants at the time of the encounter, including:
- Carrying a concealed firearm
- Possession of marijuana
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
Police have not said whether the firearm recovered at the scene was legally owned.
Investigation Underway
In accordance with department policy, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) has been called in to independently investigate the officer-involved shooting. The officers involved have been placed on administrative leave, pending the outcome of the inquiry.
No additional injuries were reported. The officer who was shot is expected to make a full recovery, thanks to protective gear.
“We are thankful that our officer is safe and recovering,” a WSPD spokesperson said Friday night. “This is a tragic situation for all involved, and we will ensure a thorough and transparent investigation.”
Neighborhood Reacts
Neighbors in the quiet residential area were left shaken by the incident, which unfolded just blocks from local schools and family homes.
“We heard shouting, then gunshots,” said one resident who asked not to be named. “It’s shocking to see something like this happen right outside your front door.”
This marks the latest in a string of violent confrontations involving law enforcement in North Carolina this year, reigniting discussions around policing, use of force, and crisis response protocols.