Full Breakdown
North Carolina Truck Driver Charged in Armed Bank Robbery and Shootout
1/1/2026, 10:15:55 PM
Incident Overview
Willie Edward McGee Jr., a truck driver from Rocky Mount, North Carolina, has been federally charged following an armed bank robbery and a subsequent shootout with law enforcement. The incident occurred on December 26, 2023, when McGee allegedly entered a First Citizens Bank in Zebulon, demanding money while claiming to have C-4 explosives. He fled the scene with $3,234 in cash, leading to a police pursuit that culminated in a confrontation in a nearby parking lot.
Details of the Robbery and Shootout
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, McGee's robbery involved him presenting a note to the bank teller and threatening violence. After the robbery, police located McGee's semi-truck in a Hobby Lobby parking lot. Upon police approach, McGee exited the vehicle armed with a Ruger AR-15 style rifle and opened fire on the officers. Law enforcement returned fire, striking McGee, who was subsequently taken into custody. Officers recovered both the rifle and a handgun from McGee during the arrest. Fortunately, no officers or civilians were injured during the incident.
Legal Charges and Potential Sentencing
McGee faces multiple federal charges, including armed bank robbery and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison for the bank robbery charge and a mandatory minimum of 10 years for the firearm charge, with sentences expected to run consecutively. U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle emphasized the seriousness of the charges, stating that the federal government would aggressively pursue cases involving violence against law enforcement.
Background of the Suspect
Willie Edward McGee Jr. has a lengthy criminal history, with records indicating numerous charges spanning over two decades across various counties, including Duplin, Wake, and Durham. This history raises concerns regarding repeat offenses and public safety.
Official Statements
U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle remarked, "When bad guys shoot at our law enforcement partners, we will aggressively pursue federal charges against them." Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche characterized the incident as "domestic terror," highlighting the need for a strong response to violence in communities.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the robbery and shootout remains active, involving multiple agencies, including the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), Zebulon Police Department, and Rocky Mount Police Department. Authorities are encouraging anyone with additional information to contact the FBI.
Conclusion
Willie Edward McGee Jr. is currently in custody, facing serious federal charges that reflect the gravity of his actions during the bank robbery and subsequent shootout. The case underscores ongoing concerns about repeat offenders and the safety of law enforcement personnel.
