Federal Charges Brought After Man Fired at Nash County Deputy

RALEIGH, N.C. – Federal charges were brought Tuesday against a Rocky Mount man, charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm.  Montrel Devon Ingram, 36, appeared in federal court for his initial appearance.

“We will act swiftly and relentlessly to investigate anyone who threatens our law enforcement officers and violates federal law,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “This case reflects the strong, coordinated response from our federal and local partners, and I’m proud of the quick work that brought the defendant into custody.”

“Keeping dangerous individuals and illegal firearms off our streets is critical to protecting our neighborhoods,” said Nash County Sheriff Keith Stone. “Thanks to the dedication of our deputies and the support of our federal partners, we were able to quickly apprehend the suspect and recover the weapon ensuring the safety of our community.”

According to the information presented in the criminal complaint, Ingram was a passenger during a traffic stop in which the driver was suspected of driving under the influence. When backup arrived, Ingram fled on foot near the intersection of Ravenwood Drive and Canary Drive in Rocky Mount. A deputy from the Nash County Sheriff’s Office pursued Ingram after noticing him reaching into his waistband. The deputy shouted loud verbal commands for Ingram to show his hands. Shortly after, the deputy heard a gunshot and saw a muzzle flash coming from Ingram’s direction. Seeking cover while maintaining a clear line of sight on Ingram, the deputy observed him throw a firearm into the front yard of a nearby residence and then attempt to jump the fence into the backyard. The deputy quickly closed in on Ingram, ordering him to the ground. With the assistance of NC State Highway Patrol (NCSHP) troopers, the deputy was able to apprehend Ingram and take him into custody. They later located the thrown firearm, which had a spent shell casing stuck in the ejector port, causing it to jam. The magazine contained five additional rounds of ammunition.

Ingram faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison if convicted.

Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Nash County Sheriff’s Office, and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol assisted with the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Phil Aubart is prosecuting the case.

Related court documents and information are located on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:25-MJ-01851.

A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.