Deputy Shot In The Leg During Domestic Dispute In Caldwell County

GRANITE FALLS, N.C. — A deputy is recovering from a gunshot wound to the leg after responding to a domestic dispute in Granite Falls, according to a news release.  Investigators say deputies were called to Grace View Place just after 1am on July 15th after a child went to a nearby residence and told the neighbors that their mother was being assaulted by their father.

Deputies forced their way inside the home after no one would come to the door, according to the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office.  Once inside, deputies say Christopher Payne, 29, opened fire on the deputies.

During the exchange of gunfire, one deputy was shot in the leg and evacuated from the scene, according to a news release.  The deputy was transported to Frye Hospital by Caldwell County EMS.  The deputy was treated and released from the hospital.

A short time later, deputies determined the victim fled the house prior to law enforcement arriving on the scene.  The victim said an 18-month-old was also inside the home.  Just after 7:30am, Payne was taken into custody at the home.  Payne nor the infant were injured during the incident, according to deputies.

Payne has been charged with one count of assault on a law enforcement officer with a firearm, felony child abuse, and three counts of possession of a firearm by a felon.  His bond was set at $10M.  Deputies say Payne was also served with outstanding order for arrest for failure to appear on an unrelated case of assault on a female, communicating threats, and second degree trespass.