Billy Joe Faircloth Jr. dies in fatal Sampson County shooting

Billy Joe Faircloth Jr. dies in fatal Sampson County shooting

Fatal Sampson County shooting death of Billy Joe Faircloth Jr. – Obituary

Billy Joe Faircloth Jr., 39, lost his life following a deputy-involved shooting in Sampson County after a police chase that ended in a crash on Saturday morning.

Deputies with the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office attempted to pull over a motorcycle near U.S. Highway 421, north of Clinton, for a registration issue around 9:30 a.m. When the rider, later identified as Faircloth, failed to stop, a pursuit began.

During the chase, authorities noted that Faircloth had a firearm on his hip. As the motorcyclist neared the Kitty Fork area, deputies say he pulled out the weapon, prompting one of the deputies to fire. Faircloth was struck by gunfire.

Officers on the scene provided immediate medical assistance until emergency personnel arrived. Faircloth was transported to Sampson Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

Family members at the scene expressed sorrow over Faircloth’s passing. His cousin, Elizabeth Faircloth, acknowledged that Billy, also known as BJ, had a troubled past but emphasized that he was loved and deserved compassion. “BJ made mistakes, including theft, but he was more than his worst moments,” she said. “He mattered to many.”

No deputies were hurt in the incident.

The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation is handling the case. WRAL News is seeking further details about the deputy involved, including whether they will be placed on administrative leave during the investigation.