State Trooper David Shawn Blanton Jr. Shot and Killed During Traffic Stop in Canton North Carolina

Trooper David Shawn Blanton Jr. was a dedicated North Carolina Highway Patrol officer whose life was tragically cut short in the line of duty on June 17, 2008. His sacrifice is remembered as a symbol of bravery, honor, and service. A proud member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Trooper Blanton made history as the first enrolled Cherokee to serve as a North Carolina State Trooper. His untimely passing deeply impacted his family, law enforcement agencies, and the broader community.

This article explores his early life, career, the tragic events leading to his death, and the enduring legacy he left behind.

Early Life and Cherokee Heritage

Born on January 19, 1984, in Cherokee, Swain County, North Carolina, David Shawn Blanton Jr. was raised in a tight-knit family with strong Cherokee roots. His heritage played a significant role in shaping his values of service, respect, and commitment to his people.

David grew up in Cherokee, North Carolina, a small town with a rich history and culture of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI). From a young age, he exhibited leadership qualities and a desire to make a difference.

Education and Athletic Career

Blanton attended Smoky Mountain High School in Sylva, North Carolina, where he graduated in 2002. During his school years, he was a well-known athlete, participating in:

• Football
• Baseball
• Wrestling
• Track and field

His love for sports demonstrated his teamwork, discipline, and perseverance, qualities that later defined his career in law enforcement.

Career in Law Enforcement

Path to Becoming a State Trooper

Before joining the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, David worked as a dispatcher for the Cherokee Tribal Police Department. His time in this role fueled his passion for law enforcement, and he soon set his sights on becoming a State Trooper.

In May 2006, David Blanton graduated from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol Training Academy. He was assigned to Troop G, District 5, in Waynesville, North Carolina.

First Cherokee State Trooper

David Shawn Blanton Jr. made history by becoming the first enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians to serve as a North Carolina State Trooper. His achievement was a source of immense pride for his family, tribe, and the broader community.

Personal Life and Family

In August 2007, David married Michaela Layman, a native of Canton, North Carolina. The couple built a loving home, eagerly anticipating the arrival of their first child.

On May 31, 2008, just two weeks before his death, Trooper Blanton and his wife welcomed their son, Brendan Tye Blanton. The birth of his child brought immense joy, and David looked forward to raising his son with love and guidance.

The Tragic Incident: June 17, 2008

On June 17, 2008, Trooper Blanton was conducting a routine traffic stop on Interstate 40 near Canton, North Carolina. During the stop, a violent encounter ensued, leading to his fatal shooting.

Details of the Shooting

• Blanton pulled over a suspect on I-40.
• The suspect, who had a criminal history, engaged in a struggle with the trooper.
• Blanton was shot multiple times during the altercation.
• The suspect stole Blanton’s service weapon and fled the scene.
• Trooper Blanton was found and rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries.

This tragic event marked the 59th line-of-duty death in the history of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.

Apprehension of the Suspect

The gunman was quickly identified and arrested by law enforcement. In October 2010, the suspect was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

A Devastating Family Tragedy

Only four months after Trooper Blanton’s passing, another tragedy struck the family. His infant son, Brendan Tye Blanton, passed away in October 2008. The loss of both father and son devastated the Blanton family and the community.

Despite the heartbreak, Michaela Blanton and their loved ones found strength in remembering David’s dedication to his family and duty.

Community Mourning and Honors

Funeral and Public Tributes

Thousands attended Trooper Blanton’s funeral, including:

• Law enforcement officers from across the country
• Members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians
• State and federal officials
• Family, friends, and local community members

The ceremony honored his sacrifice and heroism, with many remembering him as a brave, compassionate, and dedicated officer.

Memorials and Tributes

In recognition of his service, several memorials and dedications were established:

1. Bridge Dedications:
   • The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians named a bridge over the Oconaluftee River in downtown Cherokee after Trooper Blanton.
   • The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) dedicated a bridge on Interstate 40 near Canton in his memory.
2. State and National Honors:
   • His name is engraved on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.
   • The North Carolina State Highway Patrol established an annual award in his honor.
3. Community Support Initiatives:
   • The David Shawn Blanton Jr. Memorial Scholarship was created to support aspiring law enforcement officers.

The Lasting Legacy of Trooper David Shawn Blanton Jr.

Trooper Blanton’s life and sacrifice continue to inspire generations of law enforcement officers, particularly Native American recruits who see him as a pioneer and role model.

His dedication to his family, community, and career is a testament to his character and values. While his passing was an unimaginable loss, his impact on North Carolina, Cherokee Nation, and law enforcement as a whole is everlasting.

Conclusion

The story of Trooper David Shawn Blanton Jr. is one of honor, service, and ultimate sacrifice. As the first enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians to serve as a North Carolina State Trooper, he paved the way for future generations. His tragic death in the line of duty serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers daily.

His legacy lives on through his family, fellow officers, and the countless people he inspired. As communities continue to remember his bravery, his name and story will never be forgotten.