(UPDATE) Veteran Columbus County Deputy in Stable Condition After Delco Manhunt; Suspect Held Without Bond

UPDATE: September 17, 2026

DELCO, NC —  The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office has identified the veteran law enforcement officer injured in Wednesday’s standoff as Deputy Byrd, a 29-year veteran of the force. Deputy Byrd is currently listed in stable condition at New Hanover Regional Medical Center after undergoing surgery on his forearm.

Meanwhile, the suspect, William Robert Smith Jr., appeared virtually in court on Thursday following a grueling 10-hour manhunt. Smith, who was already on probation at the time of the incident, faces charges of attempted first-degree murder and assault on a law enforcement officer. Following treatment at a local hospital, he is currently being held without bond at the Columbus County Detention Center with a court-appointed attorney.

The original article from yesterday continues below…

September 16, 2026

Suspect in Columbus County Deputy Shooting Now in Custody

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC — The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office says the suspect involved in Wednesday’s deputy shooting was taken into custody at approximately 6:56 p.m., ending an hours‑long manhunt on the east end of the county.

CCSO did not release additional details regarding the circumstances of the arrest, the suspect’s condition, or forthcoming charges in this brief statement.

Earlier today, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation announced the arrest of William Robert Smith Jr., 48, who is charged with attempted first‑degree murder and other offenses following the shooting of a deputy during a foot chase in the Delco area.

CCSO says more information will be released when available.

Coastal Carolina News Earlier Coverage 

All individuals named in this report are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Charges and case statuses may change as investigations and court proceedings continue.

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