Detective Charles Edward Harris, aged 45, was shot and killed on April 4, 1991, in Southern Pines, North Carolina. Harris, a 20-year veteran of law enforcement, had served with the Hoke County Sheriff's Office and later joined the Southern Pines Police Department. He was a U.S. Navy veteran and is survived by his wife and three children.
Harris was killed in a case of retaliation by drug dealers he had previously arrested.
The suspects discovered Harris's address, went to his home, and shot him as he answered the door. His wife was also shot and wounded during the attack. Eight suspects were arrested in connection with his murder.
The man who shot Harris, aged 22 at the time, was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life plus 60 years in prison. He has been denied parole multiple times and remains in prison as of June 9, 2023.
Detective Harris's death was a tragic loss for the community and his family, and his legacy continues to be honored by those who knew him.
