Jah’barie Ford Arrested After Evading Authorities for Over Five Months in Connection to Washington County Shooting; Capture Marks Major Breakthrough in Lengthy Criminal Investigation
WASHINGTON COUNTY, NC – After evading law enforcement for more than five months, Jah’barie Ford, a suspect in a Washington County shooting, has finally been apprehended, marking a major breakthrough in a case that has gripped the local community and frustrated investigators since late 2024.
According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and as reported by WITN News, Ford was taken into custody without incident after a coordinated operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies. Authorities had been searching for the suspect since the shooting occurred in late 2024, an incident that left a man hospitalized and sparked an intensive investigation across the region.
The Crime and the Manhunt
The original shooting took place in Washington County, though investigators have not yet released the exact date or detailed circumstances of the incident. What is known, however, is that Ford had been named a prime suspect early in the investigation and managed to evade capture for more than five months, prompting concern from both law enforcement and community members.
Officials described Ford as “armed and dangerous” and warned the public not to approach him. His ability to avoid apprehension for such an extended period raised concerns about how effectively he was able to move around undetected and whether others may have knowingly harbored him.
During the manhunt, deputies followed up on numerous leads, combed surveillance footage, and enlisted the help of federal partners to extend their search beyond the immediate area. It is unclear at this time where Ford was ultimately located and arrested, but deputies have confirmed that his capture required weeks of behind-the-scenes coordination and intelligence gathering.
“This arrest is the result of persistent, focused efforts by law enforcement,” said a representative of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. “We are proud to say that the community can rest a little easier knowing that this individual is no longer a threat to public safety.”
Legal Proceedings and Community Relief
Ford has been booked into the Washington County Detention Center, where he is awaiting arraignment on charges related to the shooting. Authorities have not yet released details about the charges he will face, but they are expected to include assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, attempted murder, and possibly weapons violations.
The name and condition of the shooting victim have not been released out of respect for their privacy, but officials say the individual survived and continues to recover from their injuries. The victim’s family has reportedly been notified of Ford’s capture and expressed relief that justice is now moving forward.
Residents in Washington County have also welcomed news of the arrest, with many voicing appreciation for the hard work of law enforcement during a difficult and prolonged investigation.
“There’s been a lot of fear and uncertainty since the shooting happened,” said one community member who asked not to be named. “To hear that the suspect is finally in custody—well, it gives us a chance to breathe again.”
Investigation Continues
Despite Ford’s arrest, the investigation into the shooting remains active. Authorities are now focusing on reconstructing the suspect’s movements during the months he was on the run and determining whether anyone assisted him in evading capture. Investigators have not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests tied to obstruction or harboring a fugitive.
Law enforcement officials also used the opportunity to remind the public about the importance of community cooperation in solving crimes.
“We rely on the public’s help,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement. “Tips from residents, surveillance footage, and community awareness all play a role in bringing fugitives like this into custody.”
Anyone with further information about Jah’barie Ford’s activities during his time in hiding is encouraged to contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office or leave an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.
