Gastonia Officer-Involved Shooting Under Investigation

A recent officer-involved shooting in Gastonia has put the spotlight on local law enforcement procedures and community safety just west of Charlotte. Early Monday morning, two Gastonia Police officers were involved in an incident that led to a suspect being shot and an ongoing investigation by state authorities.

The Incident Details Unfold

Early Monday morning, Gastonia Police officers Ty C. Goins and Christopher E. Stockton responded to a domestic disturbance call that quickly escalated. The situation unfolded near the intersection of Airline Avenue and South Webb Street, a residential area west of Charlotte. Upon arrival, officers encountered 59-year-old Terry Lynn Miller in the street, leading to a physical altercation where officers ultimately discharged their firearms.

Terry Lynn Miller sustained multiple gunshot wounds during the confrontation and was promptly transported to CaroMont Regional Medical Center. Initially reported in serious condition, he later stabilized and was discharged into police custody. Officer Goins also suffered minor injuries during the struggle, highlighting the immediate dangers faced by law enforcement during such volatile calls.

Standard Procedure: SBI Takes Over

In North Carolina, any incident involving law enforcement officers using deadly force automatically triggers an independent criminal investigation by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI). This critical step ensures an unbiased, external review of all facts and circumstances. As is standard protocol, both Officer Goins and Officer Stockton have been placed on administrative leave while the investigation proceeds, allowing a full and impartial assessment of their actions.

Beyond the NCSBI’s criminal inquiry, the Gastonia Police Department will conduct its own comprehensive internal administrative investigation. This parallel review focuses specifically on whether departmental policies, procedures, and training protocols were strictly followed by the officers involved. Together, these investigations provide a layered approach to accountability and transparency for the community.

Charges Filed Against Suspect

Following his discharge from the hospital, Terry Lynn Miller was immediately taken into custody and faces a series of serious charges stemming from the incident. These include assault on a law enforcement officer, felony assault by strangulation – a particularly grave charge indicating a violent act against an individual – resisting a public officer, and a misdemeanor domestic violence protective order violation. The nature of these charges points to the aggressive and dangerous context of the initial domestic call. Further charges may be added based on the complete findings of the NCSBI’s ongoing investigation.

What This Means for Charlotte Area Residents

While the incident occurred specifically in Gastonia, a vibrant city bordering Charlotte to the west, its broader implications extend throughout the greater Mecklenburg County area. Officer-involved shootings inevitably spark crucial community conversations about law enforcement’s use of force, police accountability, and the vital role of public trust. For residents in both Gastonia and Charlotte, maintaining faith in our local law enforcement agencies and the broader justice system hinges significantly on the thoroughness, integrity, and transparency of investigations like this.

This incident serves as a stark and immediate reminder of the inherent volatility and unpredictable nature of domestic disturbance calls, which are frequently among the most dangerous situations officers encounter. It also highlights the complex, split-second decisions law enforcement personnel must make under extreme pressure to ensure public safety and their own.

Looking Ahead: The Path to Resolution

The NCSBI’s investigation promises to be comprehensive, involving detailed witness interviews, meticulous forensic analysis of the scene, and careful reconstruction of the events leading to the shooting. Once completed, their findings and any collected evidence will be formally presented to the District Attorney’s office. The District Attorney will then critically review the case to determine if criminal charges against the officers are warranted under North Carolina law. Separately, the Gastonia Police Department’s internal review will assess compliance with established departmental policies and may lead to disciplinary actions or policy adjustments, depending on its conclusions.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who is investigating this incident?
  The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI) is conducting an independent criminal investigation, and the Gastonia Police Department is running an internal administrative review.
• Are the officers still on duty?
  No, both officers involved, Ty C. Goins and Christopher E. Stockton, have been placed on administrative leave, which is standard procedure following an officer-involved shooting.
• What charges does the suspect face?
  Terry Lynn Miller faces charges including assault on a law enforcement officer, felony assault by strangulation, resisting a public officer, and a misdemeanor domestic violence protective order violation.
• How long will the investigation take?
  Investigations by the NCSBI can take several weeks to months, depending on the complexity of the evidence and witness statements.

As the investigations unfold, residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and remember the importance of due process for all involved parties.

Gastonia Police Shoot Suspect in Domestic Incident