Federal Inmate Kills North Carolina Detention Officer, Escapes Vehicle Chase

In Cherokee County, North Carolina, detention officer Francisco Flattes was fatally shot by federal inmate Kelvin Simmons during a scuffle at a medical clinic where Simmons was being taken for treatment. Simmons, who has a history of bank robbery and was awaiting trial for a prior escape attempt, overpowered the officers, seized Flattes' weapon, and shot him before fleeing in a stolen vehicle. A police chase ensued across multiple counties, ending in Macon County where Simmons was apprehended after a brief standoff. Another officer was injured during the incident but is expected to recover. Sheriff Dustin Smith described the day as one of the hardest of his career and confirmed Simmons will face charges including first-degree murder. Flattes is survived by his wife, who also works at the detention center, along with his children and grandchildren.