Manhunt underway for 'armed and dangerous' man in Wayne County

A “code red” was issued to all residents within a 3-mile radius of Durham Lake Road after a man was seen running into the woods with a firearm.

Authorities said they believe the man is Ricky Terrell Ward, 33, who is considered to be a suspect in the Sunday death of David Demarlo Thompson.

Thompson, 35, was found in the backyard of a home at 109 Arrowhead Road at about 9:30 p.m. with gunshot wounds and died on the way to the hospital.

Authorities said Goldsboro police have also obtained warrants charging Ward with shooting into occupied property, attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

The Goldsboro charges stem from a March 27 incident in which authorities said Ward tried to rob a couple at a Speedway gas station at U.S. Highway 70 West and Claridge Nursery Road.

Authorities said Ward allegedly wrecked a vehicle that had been reported stolen in Wake County on March 19 after Wayne county deputies attempted to stop him following the robbery. He is wanted by the Raleigh Police Department in connection with the theft.

Ward is described as being black, skinny and tall with a mustache and goatee. He has a tattoo over his right eye and teardrop tattoos under his eyes. He was last seen wearing dark pants and a dark hoodie.

Authorities said Ward should be considered armed and dangerous. Anybody who believes they have seen him should dial 911 immediately. Anybody with information is asked to call the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office at 919-731-1480 or Crime Stoppers at 919-735-2255.