WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — A man accused of opening fire during an encounter with an officer has been charged with attempted first-degree murder.
It happened Sunday afternoon near Washington Park in Winston-Salem. An officer was on routine patrol when they noticed a car blocking the entrance to the park. They thought the vehicle was disabled and tried to help.
Detectives said the officer tried talking to 34-year-old Darryl Click to see if anything was wrong with the car. However, Click appeared to be intoxicated or impaired, according to police reports.
Investigators said the officer told Click to get out of the car before he pulled out a gun. That's when police said a struggle ensued and backup officers arrived on the scene.
During the struggle, police said they were able to knock the weapon from Click’s hands for a moment. However, Click got the handgun back, and the officer continued to struggle with him.
When the other officer arrived, they struggled to get Click into custody. Police said Click let off a gunshot that came within inches of the officer's chest.
No officers were injured but Click was treated for a minor cut to his mouth.
Police said they found another gun and drugs in the car after the arrest. Click is facing multiple charges:
- Attempted first-degree murder
- Assault with a deadly weapon on a government official
- Felony possession of marijuana
- Carrying a concealed gun.
Click is in jail on a $600,000 bond.
“Our officers and law enforcement have been denigrated. They have been demoralized. The cause for defunding and the disrespect they’ve endured over the last 18 months has made it difficult to keep officers on the force, on the job, and our rookie classes full," District Attorney Jim O'Neill said.
If you have any information call Crime Stoppers at (336) 773-7700.
Stay connected to local, national, and breaking news: Download the WFMY News 2 app.
►Text the word APP to 336-379-5775
