Multi-Agency Manhunt Ends with Trafficking Suspect in Custody

On August 5, 2026, at approximately 2:40 p.m., KPD's Violent Crime Action Team (VCAT) attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Highway 258 South. The driver, 26-year-old Nijear Nicholas-Singleton of Jacksonville, fled from officers.

Officers pursued the vehicle into Jones County, where Nicholas-Singleton abandoned the vehicle and fled into a wooded area on foot. A lengthy search was conducted, but he initially avoided capture.

Later that day, the Jones County Sheriff's Office received a report of a subject matching Nicholas-Singleton's description running through a residential backyard. KPD officers responded back to the area, and a second coordinated search resulted in his successful arrest.

Nicholas-Singleton was transported to the Lenoir County Jail, where he was charged with:

• Trafficking Marijuana (2 counts)

• Possession with Intent to Sell and Deliver Marijuana

• Felony Possession of Marijuana

• Felony Flee to Elude Arrest

• Multiple Traffic Violations

• Multiple Counts of Resist, Obstruct, or Delay a Public Officer

On behalf of Chief Goyette, we would like to thank the Jones County residents who took the time to report seeing the suspect. That call provided critical information that helped officers locate and safely take him into custody. We also extend our appreciation to the Lenoir County Sheriff, Jones County Sheriff's Office / Matthew J. Wineman, Sheriff, Jacksonville Police Department, North Carolina State Highway Patrol, City of New Bern, NC Police Department, Jones County Emergency Services, Lenoir County Emergency Services, Carteret County Sheriff's Office, and North Carolina Department of Adult Correction for their assistance. Their teamwork and coordination were instrumental in bringing this incident to a safe and successful conclusion.