Detention Officer Francisco Paul Flattes - Cherokee County Sheriff's Office - North Carolina

On June 30. 2025, Detention Officer Francisco Flattes of the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office (North Carolina) was shot and killed by a federal inmate at the Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital at 3990 E. U.S. Highway 64 Alt in Murphy, North Carolina.

Officer Flattes and another officer had transported the inmate to a medical appointment when the inmate took Officer Flattes' gun and mortally wounded him. The inmate fled into the parking lot and drove off after carjacking a vehicle.

Officer Flattes was transported to the local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. Another officer was also injured in the scuffle and is recovering.

The inmate was apprehended after a standoff.

Officer Flattes had served with the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office for four years and was 56-years-old. He is survived by his wife, who also served with the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office, four daughters, two sons, and 15 grandchildren.

Our sincere condolences go out to Officer Flattes' family and partners.