Shooting in Murphy NC; Today, Murphy, North Carolina, Police Are Responding To An Active Shooter Incident
Authorities are responding to an active shooter situation in Murphy, North Carolina, today, June 30, 2025. The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and Murphy Police Department confirmed they received multiple emergency calls reporting gunfire near the downtown area early this afternoon, prompting a swift and large-scale law enforcement response.
While the situation remains fluid, officials have urged residents to avoid the vicinity of Peachtree Street and surrounding neighborhoods as the search for the suspect continues.
Initial reports suggest the incident began around 1:45 p.m. when shots were fired near a local business on the edge of Murphy’s town center. Witnesses described hearing multiple gunshots followed by the sound of people fleeing and ducking for cover. Several businesses immediately went into lockdown, with employees and customers sheltering in place. Some residents also reported seeing a person, described as a male in dark clothing, fleeing the scene carrying what appeared to be a rifle or long gun.
Law enforcement officers, including SWAT teams and agents from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, have secured a perimeter around the affected area and are actively conducting a building-to-building search. The suspect’s identity has not been confirmed, and it remains unclear if the shooter acted alone or if there may be additional individuals involved.
Emergency medical personnel have responded to the scene, and while details remain limited, unconfirmed reports indicate that there may be multiple victims. The exact number of injured individuals has not been released by authorities. Local hospitals have been placed on alert to receive potential trauma patients. Helicopters have been observed circling the area, likely assisting law enforcement with aerial surveillance and victim transport.
Murphy, a small town nestled in the western corner of North Carolina, is not accustomed to incidents of this magnitude. The shooting has shaken the community, with many residents expressing fear and disbelief on social media. Parents rushed to pick up children from nearby schools and daycares, although most educational institutions were already closed for summer break.
Mayor Rick Ramsey issued a brief statement, urging residents to remain indoors and comply with all instructions from emergency services. “This is an ongoing situation. Please stay inside and stay safe. Our first responders are working tirelessly to resolve this incident and ensure public safety,” the statement read.
Governor Roy Cooper has been made aware of the incident and expressed concern over the unfolding situation in Murphy. His office stated that state resources are being mobilized to support local authorities in responding to the emergency.
Authorities are expected to hold a press conference later this evening to provide further updates and confirm any injuries or arrests. In the meantime, residents are being asked to remain calm, avoid speculation, and refrain from sharing unverified information on social media.
As this story develops, the community of Murphy is holding its breath, hoping for a swift resolution and praying for the safety of everyone involved. Law enforcement continues to treat the incident as an active threat until more information is confirmed.
