Deputy involved in domestic violence death; charged with First Degree Murder by SBI

From our news partner The Shelby Independent - www.shelbyindependent.com

A domestic violence incident has left one person dead, involving a deputy with The Cleveland County Sheriff's Office that was off-duty at the time.

While the facts in this death remain unclear, The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office did release a statement regarding the tragic event, stating the sheriff's office is "deeply saddened to confirm that an off-duty deputy with our agency, Mitchel Jermaine Hilton, 37, was involved in a tragic domestic violence incident, which resulted in the death of another person that occurred late Thursday evening, November 6, 2025, at the Crown Ridge Apartments located at 1635 South Dekalb Street in Shelby."

The Shelby Police Department responded to the scene and requested assistance from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI).

"The SBI has since assumed responsibility for the criminal investigation, and our agency is fully cooperating with their efforts," the statement noted.

In a social media post, the SBI stated Hilton is being charged with First Degree Murder.

CCSO denounced domestic violence as a devastating issue that affects individuals and families from all walks of life, including members of the law enforcement community.

"It serves as a painful reminder that no one is immune to the far-reaching impact of these tragedies. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the victim during this incredibly difficult time."

The investigation remains under active by the SBI; the statement concluded by mentioning that no additional information will be released by the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office at this time.