Nationwide — Karson Hyder, a white police officer from Shelby, North Carolina, who was seen using force and repeatedly punching a Black woman in the head during an arrest, has been fired. City leaders confirmed the termination after an internal investigation into the incident.
City officials announced the decision during a Saturday morning news conference streamed by the City of Shelby. Police Chief Brad Fraser, City Manager Justin Merritt, and Mayor Stan Anthony were present and said the firing followed a review of the officer’s conduct, according to Queen City News.
The video, which went viral on Friday, shows Hyder during a confrontation with Cherrie Moore. It appears to show him forcing her to the ground and repeatedly striking her head while she struggles. Another officer arrives shortly after and can be heard telling him to stop before Moore is restrained and handcuffed.
Moore was later charged with three misdemeanors, including breaking or entering, resisting a public officer, and assault on a government official. She posted bond following her arrest. Court records also show Hyder was listed in her arrest warrant, and Moore previously pleaded guilty in 2025 to resisting a public officer in a separate case involving the same officer.
The case has been turned over to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation for further review. Officials said agents will continue gathering evidence before submitting their findings to the District Attorney’s Office for evaluation.
SBI Director Chip Hawley said the investigation will take time and will focus on reviewing all available facts before any conclusions are reached. He added that the final report will be handed to prosecutors once the review is complete.
The release of the video sparked protests outside the Shelby police headquarters on Friday, with community members calling for accountability. Authorities have urged the public to provide any additional information as the investigation continues.