Residents across North Carolina received a startling Blue Alert on Saturday, warning them about a dangerous fugitive who may have crossed into the state after an incident in neighboring Georgia.
Law enforcement agencies are urgently searching for 26-year-old Timothy Craig Ramsey, who is accused of assaulting a police captain in McCaysville, Georgia, on Friday night.
Incident in McCaysville
According to the Georgia State Bureau of Investigation (GBI), the confrontation unfolded late Friday when Ramsey allegedly attacked a police captain during an encounter in the small border town of McCaysville, which lies directly on the Georgia–Tennessee state line.
Details about the exact circumstances of the assault have not yet been made public, but the severity of the case prompted authorities to move quickly in warning nearby communities.
Suspect Description
Law enforcement described Ramsey as a white male, 26 years old, standing 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighing around 185 pounds. He has long brown hair and striking blue eyes.
In what investigators called an unusual detail, Ramsey was last seen wearing a bright green chemical-resistant type suit along with a motorcycle helmet. The odd clothing may make him more noticeable to potential witnesses.
Blue Alert Reaches North Carolina
Given McCaysville’s proximity to the state line, authorities believe Ramsey may have fled north into Cherokee County, North Carolina. This prompted officials to issue a Blue Alert, a specialized emergency notification system used to inform the public when a suspect who has assaulted or killed a law enforcement officer is on the run and considered dangerous.
Residents across parts of western North Carolina reported receiving the alert on their phones Saturday morning, warning them to stay vigilant and avoid approaching the suspect. Law enforcement stressed that Ramsey should be considered armed and dangerous, urging citizens to immediately call 911 if they spot him.
Community on Edge
The alert has understandably left many residents shaken, particularly in Cherokee County and surrounding areas where people are accustomed to a quiet, close-knit way of life. Local officials have reassured the community that they are working closely with the GBI and other state agencies to locate and apprehend Ramsey.
“We want everyone to stay calm but alert,” one North Carolina sheriff’s deputy noted. “Do not approach this individual. If you think you see him or anything suspicious, call 911 right away and let trained officers handle the situation.”
Ongoing Investigation
Investigators are currently piecing together Ramsey’s movements after the assault in McCaysville. Law enforcement officers are reviewing security footage, interviewing witnesses, and monitoring possible escape routes he may have taken. They have not confirmed whether he has access to a vehicle but are not ruling out that possibility.
The public’s cooperation is considered critical in cases like this, where the suspect may attempt to hide in rural or wooded areas or seek temporary shelter with acquaintances. Authorities have encouraged residents to remain cautious, secure their properties, and report any suspicious activity.
Importance of Blue Alerts
The Blue Alert system, similar to Amber Alerts for missing children, was established to protect the public while aiding in the swift apprehension of violent suspects targeting law enforcement officers. Saturday’s alert highlights how quickly information can be spread across state lines when law enforcement believes a dangerous individual could cross into another jurisdiction.
Community Support for Law Enforcement
As the search continues, residents and community leaders across both Georgia and North Carolina have expressed their support for the injured police captain and the officers working tirelessly to track down Ramsey. Many have taken to social media to share the alert, ensuring as many people as possible are aware of the situation.
What Residents Should Do
Authorities emphasize three key points for the public:
Do not approach Timothy Craig Ramsey under any circumstances.
Call 911 immediately if you believe you see him or have information about his whereabouts.
Stay updated through official law enforcement channels for verified information rather than relying on unconfirmed social media reports.
Conclusion
The manhunt for Timothy Craig Ramsey remains active, with law enforcement agencies urging vigilance and cooperation from the public. As of now, Ramsey is still considered at large, and investigators are working around the clock to ensure he is located and taken into custody safely.
The Blue Alert serves as both a warning and a call to action, reminding communities that their awareness can play a crucial role in helping authorities protect both officers and civilians from further harm.
