IFN Staff

A man wanted by the Statesville Police Department on several felony charges was found dead in Burke County home on Thursday following a standoff with law enforcement officers.

Burke County Sheriff Banks Hinceman announced the death of Joel Scott Wimbush, 44, in a news release.

U.S Marshals have been attempting to locate Wimbish, who was wanted by the SPD for attempted first-degree murder, assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury, assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury with intent to kill, robbery with a dangerous weapon and possession of a firearm by a felon.

On Thursday, investigators received information that Wimbish was staying at a residence located at 110 Tenth Street SE in Hildebran. Officers confirmed Wimbish was inside the residence and in possession of a firearm, Hinceman said.

Despite several hours of negotiations, WImbish did not to surrender.

The Burke County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team, Catawba County Sheriff’s Office STAR Team, drone unit, and negotiation teams were deployed resources to make contact.

Catawba County’s armored vehicle was utilized to breach the front door, allowing a drone to access inside the residence. Using drone technology, officers located Wimbish deceased inside the residence, Hinceman said.

The N.C. State Bureau of Investigation was contacted to investigate the death.

“The Burke County Sheriff’s Office is appreciative of the assistance provided by law enforcement partners,” Hinceman said.