Homicide suspect still wanted after all-day search in Elizabeth City area

ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. (WAVY) — A fugitive out of Elizabeth City remains on the run following a manhunt that lasted much Wednesday and led to a community college and a hospital being placed on lockdowns.

Elizabeth City police said for 22-year-old Caprie Anthony Paige is wanted in connection to a shooting in Elizabeth City on Sept. 2 and is considered armed and dangerous. He’s also wanted for murder in Atlanta, Georgia.

Although police searched for hours, Paige wasn’t found.

On Wednesday, officers got a tip he was spotted at the Travelers Inn.

“Officers responded and at some point in time, as we were trying to gain a perimeter, the subject did run out of the bungalow in the back and went into the wooded area,” said James Avens, Elizabeth City Deputy Chief of Police.

The search for Paige prompted lockdowns at College of The Albemarle’s Elizabeth City campus and Sentara Albemarle Medical Center.

The school was eventually evacuated and evening classes were canceled.

“We had officers in the air and we flew our drones as well,” Avens said. “We also had several officers on the ground looking for the suspect. Trying to get in through any wooded area that has water in it is tough on officers as it makes for a long day.”

Police set up a perimeter around the area and called in extra help. 

We’re told during their search, they learned Paige is a suspect for a homicide out of Atlanta.

“The nature of the charges that he’s been charged with, one being homicide, also shooting into an occupied vehicle, he is a threat. Again those were isolated incidents but we’d like to get him apprehended,” Avens said.

Police tell 10 On Your Side they want the public to remain vigilant.

“We will continue with our patrolling in the area. If anyone sees anything suspicious, again, do not hesitate to contact 911,” Avens said. 

Police say this is an ongoing investigation but if you see Paige, do not approach him and call 911. 

Elizabeth City police said anyone with information on the shooting that can help the investigation can call 252-335-4321 or the Crime Line at 252-335-5555.