U.S. Marshals, Army CID assist Fayetteville PD in apprehending Jeffrey Nadir Shields more than a year after fatal crash on Honeycutt Road
A suspect has been apprehended in connection with a fatal hit-and-run incident that occurred near Fort Bragg in November 2023, culminating in a multi-agency operation that also uncovered significant drug trafficking activities.
Jeffrey Nadir Shields was arrested on October 31 by a joint task force comprising the United States Marshals Service, Army Criminal Investigation Division, and Fayetteville Police Department. Shields was federally indicted for involuntary manslaughter following the November 3, 2023 incident that claimed the life of 70-year-old Francis Lee Palmer.

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According to court documents, Palmer was riding a moped on Honeycutt Road around 8:45 p.m. when he was struck by a Cadillac sedan that fled the scene. Palmer succumbed to his injuries two days later.
The investigation highlights the critical collaboration between local and military law enforcement in addressing crimes affecting both the Fayetteville community and the Fort Bragg population. The Army CID’s involvement underscores the post’s commitment to justice beyond its gates.
Following Shields’ arrest on the manslaughter charge, authorities executed a search warrant at a Ridge Road residence, seizing 339.7 grams of suspected methamphetamine and 5.3 grams of suspected cocaine. Shields now faces additional charges including two counts of trafficking methamphetamine, possession with intent to manufacture/sell/deliver cocaine, and maintaining a dwelling for controlled substances.
This case demonstrates the effectiveness of persistent law enforcement cooperation in pursuing justice for victims and combating the drug epidemic that plagues our community. The resolution brings long-awaited accountability for a tragic loss of life while removing dangerous narcotics from Cumberland County streets.
This case remains ongoing as it moves through the federal justice system. For continued coverage of this story and other matters affecting our community and military neighbors, follow ccnc.news for updates.
