Official update from Sheriff Jackie Rogers: Lenoir County Deputies Shot While Responding to Call

This is an extremely serious and difficult situation for the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office and our entire community.

Earlier today, two of our deputies were shot while responding to an incident in the 700 block of Jonestown Road in Deep Run.

The suspect has been identified as Cecil James Langston, 58, of Deep Run. Langston is deceased at the scene.

The two deputies injured in the shooting are Captain Jovanni Villagra and Sergeant Cole Davis. Both deputies sustained gunshot wounds and are currently receiving treatment at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville. I am thankful to report that both deputies are in stable condition.

My first concern is, and will continue to be, the safety and well-being of Captain Villagra and Sergeant Davis. I have spoken with members of their families, and our Sheriff’s Office family is standing together with them during this difficult time.

I also want to recognize the courage and professionalism of the deputies, officers and first responders who immediately responded to this dangerous situation. Their actions reflect the commitment our men and women in law enforcement make every day to protect the people of Lenoir County.

We ask that everyone respect the privacy of the deputies and their families as they receive medical treatment and begin the recovery process.

Please keep Captain Villagra, Sergeant Davis, their families, and all of our Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office personnel in your prayers.

Sheriff Jackie Rogers

Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office

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ORIGINAL MEDIA RELEASE STATEMENT

Today, October 2, 2026, at approximately 11:15 a.m., the Lenoir County Sheriff's Office responded to a call on Jonestown Road. When deputies arrived, one deputy was shot. Deputies took cover and called for backup. A second deputy was shot while deputies were trying to get the individual to come out of the home.

The Lenoir County Sheriff's Office and Kinston Police Department brought armored vehicles to the scene. The Sheriff's Offices of Jones, Duplin, Greene, Nash, and Craven counties also assisted, along with NC Alcohol Law Enforcement, the NC Department of Insurance, and the NC State Highway Patrol.

The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation is processing the scene. The scene is secure, and there is no danger to the public. We ask that the public continue to avoid Jonestown Road while the investigation continues.

Please keep our deputies and their families in your thoughts. See less