Raleigh Police release report on gunfire exchange with Garner murder suspect

Solomon Owens fired 10 shots from an AR-pistol, striking a SWAT officer's helmet and a second officer's shield.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The Raleigh Police Department has released a five-day report following a shooting incident last week where police exchanged gunfire with 26-year-old Solomon Owens, a suspect in a Garner murder case. The report details how Owens fired 10 shots from an AR-pistol, striking a SWAT officer's ballistic helmet and a second officer's ballistic shield, before being taken into custody with the use of a less-lethal sponge round.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers faced by law enforcement when attempting to apprehend violent suspects, as well as the importance of proper training and equipment to protect officers in high-risk situations. The case also raises questions about bail and pre-trial release policies for individuals accused of serious crimes.

The details

According to the report, the shooting occurred on Thursday evening when members of the Raleigh Police Department's Selective Enforcement Unit approached the front door of a residence in the 7100 block of Woodbend Drive, trying to locate Owens. When the door opened, Owens allegedly fired 10 shots from an AR-pistol, striking SWAT officer J. Rich in his ballistic helmet and a second officer's ballistic shield. A separate officer fired two shots in response, but did not strike Owens. Owens and a woman holding a small child then exited the apartment, and another officer used a less-lethal sponge round to immobilize Owens, who was then taken into custody. Owens suffered minor injuries during the arrest but was not shot.

  • The shooting occurred on Thursday, February 20, 2026, just after 7 p.m.
  • Owens is facing murder charges in the death of Joseph Adams, a father of five, in Garner earlier this month.

The players

Solomon Owens

A 26-year-old man from Durham who is facing murder charges in the death of Joseph Adams, as well as several other felonies, and federal charges of possession of a gun by a felon.

J. Rich

A SWAT officer with the Raleigh Police Department who was struck in the ballistic helmet by one of Owens' shots.

Raleigh Police Department

The law enforcement agency that released the five-day report detailing the gunfire exchange with Owens.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.