CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. – A North Carolina State Capitol Police officer was arrested Sunday after allegedly firing a gun and threatening his neighbors during a confrontation outside his home, according to the Carteret County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies say 39-year-old Steven Stell faces multiple misdemeanor charges after witnesses reported gunfire and shouting in a residential area.
Authorities allege Stell discharged a pistol into the ground while yelling that he was going to kill nearby residents, sparking panic among neighbors and prompting several 911 calls.
Key Points
- State Capitol Police officer Steven Stell was arrested in Carteret County on four misdemeanor charges.
- Deputies say he fired a gun and threatened neighbors during a Sunday confrontation.
- Stell was released on a written promise to appear in court; his employment status remains under review.
Charges include threats and property damage
According to arrest records, Stell is charged with going armed to the terror of the public, communicating threats, injury to real property, and violating a county ordinance that prohibits discharging a firearm within 400 feet of occupied homes. Deputies said the gunfire occurred within range of at least five residences.
No injuries were reported during the incident. Stell was taken into custody without further confrontation and released later that day on a written promise to appear in court.
Investigation under review
The State Capitol Police, which provides law enforcement and security for state government buildings in Raleigh, has not yet commented on Stell’s arrest or whether disciplinary action will follow. The agency, part of the North Carolina Department of Public Safety, typically reviews any off-duty criminal allegations involving its officers.
Community reaction and next steps
The Sheriff’s Office said the investigation remains active as deputies review evidence and statements from witnesses. Residents in the area described the episode as chaotic, with several people taking shelter after hearing gunfire.
Court records show Stell’s initial appearance is scheduled in Carteret County District Court in the coming weeks. Officials say additional charges are not anticipated unless new evidence emerges.