Nationwide — Francisco Paul Flattes, a 56-year-old African American detention officer with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office in Murphy, North Carolina, was shot and killed by an inmate during a medical transport. The inmate escaped in a stolen vehicle but was later captured after a police chase.
After the shooting, Simmons ran into the parking lot and stole a car that had just pulled in. Authorities say he sped off heading east on U.S. Route 64.
Authorities in Clay County quickly alerted deputies in nearby Macon County. Officers located the vehicle and stopped Simmons after a short standoff. He was taken into custody without further injuries. One other officer suffered unrelated injuries and is recovering.
Meanwhile, Officer Flattes had worked with the sheriff’s office for four years and was remembered as a brave and caring officer. His wife, who also works at the detention center, and his family mourn his loss.
The sheriff’s office and local community are supporting Flattes’ family during this difficult time. A GoFundMe page has been set up and has raised nearly $11,000 so far.
