September 22, 2008, Caldwell County, NC – Two Caldwell County schools are on lockdown today as investigators continue the search for a man who shot two sheriff’s deputies, killing one.
Deputy Adam Klutz died shortly after the shooting late Friday night. A bullet-proof vest helped Lt. Chris Martin survive three shots to the chest.
Investigators are searching for 32-year-old Skip Brinkley, who grew up with the name Larry Wayne Brucke, Jr.
Deputies say Klutz and Martin responded to Brinkley’s home after someone there called 911 and hung up. When they arrived at the scene off Fox Winkler Road, deputies say, Brinkley opened fire.
Oak Hill Elementary School and Hibriten High School will operate in lockdown mode on Monday because the schools are located within miles of Brinkley’s home.
On Monday morning, Caldwell County sheriff’s deputies escorted school buses to the schools.
Many parents at Oak Hill told NewsChannel 36 they chose to drive their students to school as an extra precaution. Two officers will be stationed outside the schools all day.
Investigators aren’t sure if Brinkley is still in the area.
Officers from at least 30 agencies assisted in ground searches and logistical operations over the weekend. More than 200 specially-trained tactical team members performed grid searches Sunday in a large area set up around Brinkley’s 35-40 acre farm. Helicopters scanned the hillsides from the air, using infrared technology.
Late Sunday, authorities announced they were closing down the search command post. Authorities said they are changing the focus of their investigation from a manhunt to a search for leads.
