Authorities: Suspect Accused Of Shooting Deputy Wanted In Two Counties For Gun Thefts

CHARLOTTE — WCCB News is learning new information about a man charged with shooting a Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Deputy.  Arrest warrants show 23-year-old Aidan Bryant is wanted in two other counties.

He’s accused of stealing a semi-automatic weapon from Shooter’s Express in Belmont in December.  Police in Scotland County, NC, say Bryant stole a 9 millimeter handgun from a gun shop there in January.

Investigators say Bryant shot deputy Dijon Whyms, who then fired back Saturday during a traffic stop in Northeast Charlotte.  The deputy is out of the hospital.

“There was something about to happen, and I hate to say it, but I’m glad that my officer was there in one instance, but I’m sad that he was there.  Now, he’s more of a hero because something was going to happen.  You just don’t steal guns and then don’t do anything with them, you have an intent,” says Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden.

Bryant will be arrested once he’s released from the hospital.