October 16, 2010
911 Director Killed In Accident With Hunting Rifle
The Chowan County 911 director was killed in a hunting accident over the weekend in Washington County.
The Chowan County 911 director was killed in a hunting accident over the weekend in Washington County.
Washington County authorities say Franklin Jackson died after witnesses say his son was checking his rifle when it discharged, hitting his father in the chest.
Washington County authorities say they received a call around 2 p.m. Saturday on Longridge Rd. in Plymouth. When they arrived they found the 46-year-old Jackson with a gunshot wound to the chest. Jackson was transported to Washington County hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
Chowan County says Jackson had worked for the county for 24 years, the past four as 911 director.
According to authorities, family members say Jackson was returning from an afternoon hunt with his son, daughter and their grandfather. Witnesses say Jackson was preparing to leave a family member’s home when he and his son, Carlton Jackson III of Elizabeth City stopped to check their rifles to make sure they were unloaded and safe for travel. They say that’s when his son’s rifle discharged striking the father in the chest.
An investigation is being conducted by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and NC Wildlife. No one has been charged, and there are no charges pending at this time.