Stranded motorist dead after shooting at trooper that stopped to help

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WTVD) -- A North Carolina State Highway Patrol trooper was shot Monday evening while helping out a motorist.

The Highway Patrol said the trooper stopped about 7:35 p.m. Monday to help a stranded driver on Interstate 26 in Asheville when that driver pulled out a gun and shot the trooper.

Trooper Jeffrey L. Dunlap returned fire, killing 57-year-old Wesley Taylor, of Leicester, according to investigators.

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The trooper was not seriously hurt because the bullet went into his ballistic vest. He has been released from the hospital.

In accordance with agency protocol, the involved trooper was placed on administrative duty. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation is conducting an independent probe of the incident.

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