Dennis Bodden : Suspect lunges at sergeant’s weapon in officer-involved shooting

A tragic incident unfolded in Pineville, N.C., as a man suspected of shoplifting at a local Food Lion store met a fatal end in an officer-involved shooting on Tuesday. According to authorities, a Pineville Police sergeant, who was working off-duty at the McMullen Creek Shopping Center, responded to reports of shoplifting. The sergeant, who remains unidentified, was in full uniform and driving a marked car.

Upon arriving at the scene, the sergeant encountered the suspect, identified as 46-year-old Dennis Bodden, in the upper parking lot. Bodden, known for previous violent run-ins with law enforcement, was a frequent shoplifter at the Food Lion and had outstanding felony warrants for breaking and entering and larceny at the same location.

Despite repeated verbal commands from the officer, Bodden allegedly ignored instructions and attempted to walk away. The sergeant followed Bodden along Johnston Road and called for additional support from fellow officers.

As the situation escalated, Bodden became physically aggressive, prompting the use of a taser by the sergeant. However, the taser proved ineffective, leading to a tense confrontation at an apartment complex on Cedar Circle Drive.

With backup officers on the scene, Bodden resisted arrest and posed a direct threat by trying to grab the sergeant’s weapon. In a critical moment, deadly force was employed, resulting in Bodden’s fatal injury. Despite immediate medical attention, no weapon was found on Bodden’s person.

Although both Pineville officers sustained injuries during the altercation, neither suffered gunshot wounds. The sergeant involved in the shooting has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.