BRUNSWICK COUNTY — An early morning stabbing involving multiple people led to a high-speed chase, and the death of two victims.
According to the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), deputies responded to a call around 4:41 a.m. Wednesday to a possible stabbing incident.
“While deputies were en route to the call, they encountered what they believed to be the suspect’s vehicle based on the information provided by the caller. At 4:45 deputies were in pursuit of the vehicle reaching speeds up to 105 mph. Due to the nature of the incident and potential harm to the public, a BCSO deputy performed a PIT maneuver [a tactical move which forces a suspect vehicle to turn sharply and lose speed or stop] which resulted in the suspect crashing in a wooded area off of Ocean Isle Beach Road,” BCSO spokeswoman Emily Flax said.
“The suspect fled from the vehicle and after a short foot chase, the suspect was taken into custody at approximately 5:00. The suspect, Torrence O’Neal Helms, 30, of Calabash was transported to New Hanover Regional Medical Center, where he remains, and is being treated for his injuries,” she concluded.
BCSO has issued warrants for Helms, who will be arrested when he is released from NHMRC.
One female was found deceased at the scene, and one male was transported to the hospital succumbed to his injuries after arrival. Another female victim is being treated for injuries at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
The investigation is ongoing. More details will be released as soon as they become available, Flax said.
According to state records, Helms has at least ten felony convictions for breaking and entering, and is currently listed as an “absconder” from probation in District 13, which includes Brunswick County.
