Raleigh Police Officer Critically Wounded in Shootout with Stalking Suspect

RALEIGH, N.C. — A Raleigh police officer was critically wounded Monday night in a shootout with a 70-year-old man who had a history of stalking, according to court documents. The suspect, identified as Rodrigues, was killed by police after opening fire on officers responding to a domestic disturbance call in the Renaissance Park neighborhood.

The incident began when officers arrived at a home where Rodrigues had a prior relationship with the female resident, who was also the victim in multiple stalking cases involving Rodrigues. Court records reveal convictions against Rodrigues in 2014, 2021, and 2022 for stalking and harassment. In one case, he sent private images of the victim to her workplace with the intent to humiliate and intimidate her.

“The documents detail that Rodrigues sent multiple unwanted texts and calls to the victim, as well as sending private images of her to her place of employment,” according to ABC11. The court had previously ordered Rodrigues to stay at least 300 yards away from the victim and to destroy all images he had of her.

During the confrontation Monday night, neighbors were instructed to shelter in place as the situation escalated. A second individual, 73-year-old John Rowe, was also killed, though his exact role in the incident remains unclear. Police are investigating whether Rowe was connected to the domestic dispute or was an unintended victim.

Rodrigues had been ordered to undergo an abuser treatment program as part of a plea agreement in a prior case. Despite these measures, the victim continued to face harassment, culminating in Monday’s violent encounter.

Domestic violence resources in Wake County are available through the 24-Hour Crisis Line at 919-828-7740. Authorities are urging anyone experiencing domestic violence to seek help immediately.