Cherokee County Detention Officer Killed in Inmate Escape Attempt at Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital

MURPHY, NC – A Cherokee County detention officer was fatally shot, and another was injured during a violent escape attempt by a federal inmate at Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital, formerly Murphy Medical Center, on Monday.

Sheriff Dustin Smith identified the fallen officer as Francisco Flattes, a military veteran and four-year employee of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office. Officer Flattes was escorting federal inmate Kelvin Simmons to a medical appointment at an orthopedic office within the hospital when the incident occurred.

According to authorities, a struggle ensued between Simmons and the two detention officers. During the altercation, Simmons gained control of Officer Flattes’ firearm and shot him. Flattes was rushed to the hospital’s emergency department but succumbed to his injuries. The second officer, George Feinauer, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is recovering.

Following the shooting, Simmons fled the hospital, stealing a car from the parking lot. He was apprehended shortly after in Macon County, NC, by a multi-agency law enforcement effort, including the U.S. Marshals Service.

Simmons, a federal inmate housed at the Cherokee County Detention Center, has a criminal history that includes bank robbery and prior escape charges. In October 2024, he escaped from the jail by climbing over a fence.

District Attorney Ashley Welch announced that Simmons will face first-degree murder charges, with additional charges expected. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is also reviewing the case for potential federal charges.

Teresa Bowleg, administrator and associate chief nurse at Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital, expressed condolences and emphasized the hospital’s commitment to patient and staff safety while cooperating with local authorities.

Sheriff Smith, visibly emotional, called the incident “one of the worst days of my career.” He described Officer Flattes as “a good man” who served both his country and community, urging the public to keep Flattes’ family, the injured officer, and the sheriff’s office in their prayers. The investigation remains ongoing as the community mourns the loss of a dedicated officer.