A Sanford Street shooting in Hamlet on Thursday ended with one man in the hospital and another in the Richmond County Jail, where deputies say he is being held without bond on an attempted first-degree murder charge. Investigators identified the suspect as 31-year-old William Pratt Jr. and described the incident as isolated while they work the scene and track down additional details. The wounded man, who was shot in the chest and leg, was transported to a hospital for treatment, authorities said.
Suspect Arrested, Charged And Booked
Deputies named 31-year-old William Pratt Jr. as the man arrested in connection with the Sanford Street shooting and said he is charged with attempted first-degree murder. According to WCNC, Pratt was booked into the Richmond County Jail and is being held without bond as the case moves forward. For now, deputies say the arrest, charge and his no-bond status are the major developments.
What Deputies Say About The Scene
Authorities said the victim was hit by gunfire in the chest and leg, then taken to a hospital for medical care. Deputies told reporters the shooting "appears to be an isolated incident," a description they shared with local media and that was reported by WCNC. Investigators are canvassing the Sanford Street area and following up on leads tied to the case.
What The Charge Means
Attempted first-degree murder is one of the most serious violent charges in North Carolina. Murder in the first degree is classified as a Class A felony, and attempts are generally punished at a lower felony class under state law. As outlined in the North Carolina General Statutes, convictions on violent felonies can mean decades in prison, depending on the exact classification and any enhancements that apply. Local prosecutors will decide if any additional charges should be filed as the investigation unfolds.
Investigation And How To Help
The Richmond County Sheriff's Office said the investigation is active and that evidence processing is ongoing at the Sanford Street scene. Anyone with information is urged to contact the sheriff's office. The agency's public site lists its main line and options for reporting tips, and officials say callers can reach the Richmond County Sheriff's Office at (910) 895-3232.
