North Carolina man shoots officers and EMS after shooting woman

NEWTON, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) – A man with a long criminal history died after Newton police say he fired at officers after shooting a woman early Tuesday morning.

Police were assisting a shooting victim in a parking lot at the Market Place shopping center when Jamar Robinson, 33, allegedly began shooting at police.

Around midnight Tuesday, police say the woman called 911 for help. Police say the woman left the Catawba County Government Center and was found in the parking lot of Planet Fitness two miles from the Government Center.

Authorities say when police, fire and EMS arrived, Robinson drove to the parking lot and began shooting in the officers’ area. Officers responded and killed Robinson.

In 2021, Robinson was acquitted of murder related to a 2015 shooting death in Hickory. He also had several open cases in several area counties on charges ranging from speeding to reckless driving.

In a statement, Newton Police Chief Vidal Sipe said: “It is unfortunate that officers had to take a life to save multiple lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with our officers, the victim and others affected by this senseless act of violence. “Domestic violence remains a serious issue and must be addressed immediately.”

The Chief offered the Family Guidance Center as a resource.

“Unfortunately, in our community, this probably happens every day and it’s something we work daily to help rectify,” said Family Counseling Center Executive Director Robert Dalton.

Dalton says the organization offers a variety of services to survivors of domestic violence, including a 24-hour crisis line and shelter for people in need.

“Sometimes people don’t know who to call, they don’t know where to go and that’s why we’re always happy to be here to help people,” Dalton said.

The officers involved in the shooting are on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

The 38-year-old woman is in the hospital recovering from several gunshot wounds but is in stable condition.

If you or someone you know needs help leaving an abusive relationship, call the Family Counseling Center crisis line at 828-228-1787.