On Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at approximately 3:45 a.m., officers with the Salisbury Police Department responded to a disturbance call in the 200 block of Henderlite Street.
Upon arrival, officers spoke with a female victim, who reported that she and her juvenile son had been assaulted by a male suspect who was a known acquaintance. The suspect was identified as Eugene D. Nolen, (DOB:11/8/1985). Both the female victim and her son sustained non-life-threatening injuries consistent with an assault involving a knife. Officers were also informed that the victim’s juvenile daughter remained inside the residence with Nolen and that he was preventing her from leaving.
Given the seriousness of the circumstances, members with the Salisbury Police Department Special Response Team, and negotiators from both Salisbury Police Department and Rowan County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene. After approximately two hours of negotiations with Nolen, negotiators secured the release of the juvenile unharmed and the suspect’s peaceful surrender.
Nolen was taken into custody and charged with:
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon
- Felony Kidnapping
- Two Counts of Assault with a Deadly Weapon
He was transported to the Rowan County Detention Center, and is being held without bond.
“This situation had the potential to end very differently,” said Salisbury Police Chief PJ Smith. “Our officers showed patience, professionalism, and sound judgment throughout this incident. I’m proud of the work they did to safely resolve this situation. We also appreciate the support provided by the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office during this response.”
There is no active threat to the community. The Salisbury Police Department is grateful for the residents in the area for their patience and cooperation while officers worked to safely resolve the situation.