PIKEVILLE, N.C. — A suspect wanted in connection with an ongoing homicide investigation was apprehended Tuesday afternoon following a dangerous high-speed pursuit that spanned multiple jurisdictions in Wayne County.

Pursuit Begins After Attempted Traffic Stop

At approximately 2:24 p.m. on June 18, officers with the Pikeville Police Department joined in a pursuit initiated by the Fremont Police Department. The driver, later identified as Mark Anthony Gant II, was traveling at speeds exceeding 130 mph, refusing to comply with an attempted traffic stop.

The suspect led officers on a reckless chase through several municipalities, putting the public at significant risk.

Crash and Foot Chase in Goldsboro

The pursuit ended near the intersection of Ash Street and Spence Avenue in Goldsboro, where Gant crashed his vehicle after losing control. Upon exiting the vehicle, the suspect reportedly brandished a firearm at officers before fleeing on foot.

Demonstrating restraint and professionalism, officers pursued Gant on foot and successfully apprehended him without injury to the suspect, officers, or bystanders.

Stolen Firearm Recovered, Linked to Homicide

A stolen firearm was recovered at the scene. Investigators confirmed that the weapon had been used in a previous homicide, which is still under active investigation by the Goldsboro Police Department.

Police Chief Commends Officers’ Bravery

The Chief personally commended the Pikeville officers, as well as agencies including the NC State Highway Patrol, Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Goldsboro Police Department, and NC Department of Adult Corrections, for their coordinated efforts in safely apprehending the suspect.

“I want to personally commend the officers of the Pikeville Police Department involved in this incident for their
relentless pursuit of a dangerous and armed individual,” Chief Jarman said. “Their actions ensured that a violent offender was removed from our streets and brought to justice without further harm or risk to our community.”

Chief Rodney Jarman also expressed, “I commend each officer and agency involved in this incident on the successful apprehension of this murder suspect to include: NC State Highway Patrol, Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Goldsboro Police Department and NC Department of Adult Corrections.”

Charges Filed Against Suspect

Gant faces a range of charges stemming from the pursuit and separate investigations. Charges include:

From the pursuit:

• Felony Flee to Elude
• Speeding
• Reckless Driving to Endanger
• Expired Registration
• Possession of a Stolen Firearm

Additional charge from a separate case:

• Open Count of First-Degree Murder

Gant is currently being held without bond.

Community Reassured

Authorities emphasized their ongoing commitment to public safety and the removal of dangerous offenders from the community. The investigation remains active, and further updates may be released as the case develops.