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Utility worker shot, killed by Fort Liberty soldier outside Carthage home, authorities say

A Fort Liberty soldier shot and killed a utility worker he believed was trespassing outside his home in Moore County, authorities say.
Posted 2024-05-23T15:37:30+00:00 - Updated 2024-05-30T17:35:54+00:00

A Fort Liberty soldier shot and killed a utility worker he believed was trespassing outside his home in Moore County, authorities say.

According to the Moore County Sheriff's Office, around 8:15 p.m. on May 3, deputies were called to a home on Dowd Road in Carthage.

A caller inside the home dialed 911 to report a trespasser, reporting a man was taking photos on their property. The caller said the man had been "aggressive" with another resident of the home, according to the sheriff's office.

In 911 calls released Thursday, the resident tells the dispatcher that an intruder had come onto their farm and was taking photos of their property and their children. The caller said that their spouse was speaking to the person but had requested police be called. 

Deputies responded and found Ramzan Daraev, 35, from Chicago, dead from a gunshot wound.

According to the sheriff's office, Daraev, reported to be a subcontractor for Utilities One, was not wearing identification or a uniform, and he didn't have any equipment with him. Deputies had to confirm his identity through family members and an international identification inside his vehicle.

The man who fired shots is a Fort Liberty soldier with the special operations unit, according to the U.S. Army. It is unclear if he will face charges.

Officials said all involved parties have been cooperative with the investigation.

A spokesperson from Fort Liberty released the following statement:

“We are aware of the incident in Carthage involving a USASOC soldier. This incident remains under investigation. Per policy, we do not comment on active investigations to protect the process’ integrity. We appreciate the dedication of the Moore County Sheriff’s Department as they investigate.”

The shooting was reported to reported to the FBI, who provided a translator to assist in the case, and the U.S. Department of Labor and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

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