BREAKING NEWS: Winston-Salem Police Officer Shot During Disturbance Call;
Night of Fear and Courage on Nancy Lane
At precisely 6:05 p.m. on June 27, 2025, Winston-Salem Police Department (WSPD) officers responded to a report of a disturbance involving weapons at 1037 Nancy Lane. The officers faced an extremely tense and dangerous situation that would test their training, courage, and resolve.
Two officers arrived on scene and immediately began **de-escalation efforts** with the individual responsible — **34-year-old Antonio Irene Betancourt**. The interaction, initially a tense but controlled dialogue outside the residence, quickly escalated.
The Struggle That Changed Everything
According to WSPD reports, as officers attempted to arrest Betancourt on multiple outstanding warrants, including carrying a concealed gun, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia, the situation turned violent.
Mr. Betancourt resisted arrest, engaging in a physical struggle with the officers. During the fight, he suddenly fired a handgun, **striking one officer in the chest area where their ballistic vest was worn** — a shot that could have been fatal, but the vest saved their life.
In an immediate, split-second reaction, the second officer returned fire, striking the suspect. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived quickly but **pronounced Mr. Betancourt deceased at the scene**.
Officer Survives Due to Protective Gear — But Trauma Remains
The officer who was shot is currently receiving treatment at a local medical facility. Thanks to the **agency-issued ballistic vest**, the bullet was stopped, preventing what could have been a tragic loss of life. Though physically surviving, the emotional and psychological impact on the officer and fellow first responders cannot be underestimated.
This incident stands as a sobering reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face every day—risks that can escalate in an instant, even during what appear to be routine calls.
Outstanding Warrants Reveal a Troubling History
Antonio Irene Betancourt was not only involved in this deadly confrontation but was also wanted for multiple charges:
* Carrying a Concealed Gun
* Possession of Marijuana
* Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
These outstanding warrants paint a picture of a troubled individual whose decisions on that night led to a tragic and violent confrontation.
Independent Investigation Launched Amid Calls for Transparency
In keeping with department policy and a commitment to transparency, the **North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI)** has been asked to conduct an **independent investigation** into the incident. The involvement of the SBI ensures an unbiased and thorough review of the circumstances leading to the shooting.
The identities of the officers involved remain confidential at this time to protect their privacy and security.
Community and Department Rally Around Officer and Family
Chief William H. Penn, Jr., issued a heartfelt statement reflecting the gravity of the incident and the department’s resolve:
We want to thank God for protecting our officers. This incident underscores the inherent danger in this profession. We are grateful to have heroes in this profession who are willing to put their lives ahead of others.”
Behind those words lie the stories of an officer fighting to heal, a department grappling with trauma, and a community mourning the loss of a life and praying for their protectors.
The officers involved will participate in critical incident debriefings and will receive ongoing emotional and mental health support to help cope with the aftermath.
A Profession Marked by Risk and Sacrifice
Friday’s shooting is a stark illustration of the constant peril law enforcement officers face, often silently, as they serve their communities. Every call, no matter how routine, can swiftly turn deadly. Protective equipment such as ballistic vests play a vital role but cannot shield officers from the psychological scars left by such encounters.
