Charles Wells Dunn, aged 51, was the Chief of Police in Scotland Neck, North Carolina. On March 4, 1910, he was mortally wounded by a gunshot while attempting to apprehend a suspect who had just shot a state senator and a state assemblyman. The suspect became enraged when the senator informed him that he had not received a letter the suspect claimed to have mailed. In a fit of rage, the suspect produced a handgun and shot both the senator and the assemblyman, wounding them. Dunn, who was nearby, attempted to intervene and was shot and mortally wounded. He succumbed to his injuries three days later, on March 7, 1910.
The assailant, a 68-year-old man, was promptly arrested and charged with the murder of Charles Wells Dunn. He was convicted and sentenced to 30 years in prison. However, the suspect died two years later while serving his sentence.
The tragic incident highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and left a lasting impact on the community of Scotland Neck. Dunn's dedication and sacrifice were honored by his fellow officers and the citizens he served.
