Repeat offender truck driver charged with bank robbery after claiming C-4 explosives, firing on officers: feds
Share this @internewscast.com

A North Carolina truck driver with a criminal history has been slapped with federal charges after allegedly robbing a bank and engaging in a shootout with police, officials reported.

Willie Edward McGee Jr. faces charges of bank robbery and using a firearm during a violent crime, as outlined in a formal complaint.

Authorities allege that McGee stormed into a First Citizens Bank located in Zebulon, North Carolina, on December 26. He reportedly demanded cash from a bank teller, threatening he was in possession of C-4 explosives. The teller handed over $3,234, and McGee made his escape in a semi-truck, according to law enforcement.

Bank surveillance image shows a masked suspect wearing a hooded sweatshirt at a teller counter, holding an object in one hand while a bag rests on the counter between the individual and a bank employee.

A coordinated response from various law enforcement agencies led to McGee’s arrest in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, as part of an investigation into the armed bank robbery.

The Rocky Mount Police Department noted that McGee’s truck was discovered parked at a Hobby Lobby following the robbery incident.

Surveillance footage and officers at the location observed McGee allegedly emerging from his vehicle wielding a Ruger AR-style 5.56 rifle, which he used to fire at the responding officers.

Police returned fire and struck McGee. No law enforcement officers or civilians were injured. While taking McGee into custody, officers recovered the AR rifle he allegedly used to shoot at officers and a handgun from his waistband.

Surveillance image shows a white semi-truck parked in a shopping center lot as a man stands near the front of the vehicle, highlighted by a red circle

No officers or members of the public were injured as law enforcement safely took the suspect into custody after a coordinated response in Rocky Mount. (U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of North Carolina)

McGee, according to records reviewed by WRAL-News, has a lengthy criminal history. The local outlet said that the suspect has dozens of charges dating back more than 20 years.

WRAL reported that he has offenses spanning from Duplin, Wake and Durham counties.

Surveillance image shows a white semi-truck parked in a shopping center lot as a man stands near the front of the vehicle hold a gun.

Federal and local law enforcement recovered guns and evidence following the arrest of a suspect charged with armed bank robbery and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. (U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of North Carolina)

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche called the incident “domestic terror.”

“As alleged, this defendant didn’t just rob a bank — he threatened innocent civilians with explosives and then opened fire on police officers,” Blanche said. “That is not desperation, it is domestic terror. Thanks to the extraordinary courage and professionalism of our law enforcement partners, he is alive, in custody, and facing decades in federal prison.”

“Let this serve as a warning: if you bring violence into our communities or target the men and women who protect them, this Department of Justice will meet you with the full weight of the federal government and ensure you are removed from the streets for a very long time.”

The investigation remains active. Anyone with further information about the alleged crimes is asked to please call the FBI at (704) 672-6100. Fox News Digital has reached out to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of North Carolina, for comment.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
2026 Tax Revolt Looms Over Globalist Spending

Anticipation Builds for 2026 Tax Protest in Response to Global Spending Policies

Outraged over funding for foreign wars and Somali fraud, a growing movement…
5 college players who could help the Jets in 2026

Top 5 College Football Prospects Poised to Boost New York Jets in 2026

The Jets have officially entered the draft season. With their playoff hopes…
Maduro says Venezuela is 'ready' to make deal with US on drugs and oil after military strikes

Venezuela Poised for US Agreement on Oil and Drug Challenges Following Military Actions, Says Maduro

In a surprising turn of events, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has expressed…
Babies born in 2026: Chicago-area hospitals welcome first New Year's babies

Chicago Hospitals Celebrate Arrival of 2026’s First New Year’s Babies

In the early hours of New Year’s Day, Chicago-area hospitals celebrated the…
The road ahead for transit in New York City in 2026 includes fare hikes

New York City Transit 2026: Anticipated Fare Hikes and Future Plans for Commuters

New York City’s new Mayor, Zohran Mamdani, who identifies as a democratic…
Florida and Georgia governor’s races gain early momentum as primaries loom

Early Momentum Builds in Florida and Georgia Gubernatorial Races Ahead of Upcoming Primaries

Political analysts are observing competitive governor races in Florida and Georgia, each…
2026 elections: What to know about Illinois governor election, Chicago mayoral election and 2026 midterm elections

Essential Insights on Illinois’ 2026 Elections: Governor, Chicago Mayor, and Midterms Unveiled

CHICAGO (WLS) — As Illinois steps into the New Year, the state’s…
US military strikes 5 more alleged drug boats, killing 8 and possibly leaving survivors amid Venezuela pressure campaign

US Military Targets Drug Vessels: Strikes Intensify Amid Venezuela Tensions

WASHINGTON — The U.S. military announced on Wednesday that it had targeted…
5 big immigration changes taking effect across the US

Major Immigration Reforms: 5 Key Changes Reshaping U.S. Policy in 2023

In 2025, a series of immigration policy updates significantly altered the landscape…
Morning Minute: Flashback Friday - What Were We Focused on This Time Last Year?

Morning Minute: Reflecting on Our Priorities from This Time Last Year

Friday, January 2, 2026 Good morning and welcome to RedState’s “Morning Minute”—your…
Fix outdoor dining and protect the tip credit

Revitalize Outdoor Dining and Safeguard Tip Credit: A Balanced Approach

The revamped outdoor dining initiative in New York City has inadvertently become…
Mamdani Vows to Govern as Democratic Socialist in Inauguration Speech

Breaking: Mamdani’s Inauguration Speech Unveils Bold Democratic Socialist Agenda

Zohran Mamdani (D), the newly sworn-in Mayor of New York City, committed…