The Hickory community is in mourning following the tragic death of 64-year-old James Andrew Thompson, who was killed Friday morning in a police-involved shooting after a series of alarming events outside his home. The incident unfolded on 5th Street SE and quickly escalated, leaving residents shaken and authorities responding to a dangerous and unpredictable situation.
According to officials, the situation began shortly before 8:35 a.m. when Thompson’s wife called 911, reporting that her husband was armed and threatening to harm himself. As officers were dispatched, the situation took a frightening turn when multiple neighbors also called emergency services, reporting that Thompson was standing on his front porch and firing at passing vehicles.
During the chaos, one male driver was struck by gunfire. He was quickly transported to a nearby hospital, where he is reported to be in stable condition. The shooting left witnesses terrified, as gunshots rang out in what is normally a quiet neighborhood, raising urgent concerns for public safety.
When officers arrived at the scene, they found Thompson seated on his porch, still holding a handgun. Police issued repeated verbal commands, ordering him to drop the weapon. However, authorities say Thompson refused to comply and instead raised the firearm toward the officers, creating an immediate and life-threatening situation.
In response, officers discharged their weapons, striking Thompson. He was pronounced dead at the scene by Catawba County EMS. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation has since taken over the case to conduct an independent review, while the officers involved have been placed on administrative leave, following standard procedure.
The incident has left a deep impact on the Hickory community, as residents grapple with both fear and grief. James Andrew Thompson leaves behind loved ones now coping with his sudden loss. Authorities continue to urge anyone with additional information to come forward, as the tragedy stands as a sobering reminder of how quickly a domestic crisis can escalate into a deadly situation.
