News Summary
A shooting incident in Colington has left the community in shock as Jennifer Leigh Tesner confronts law enforcement. After wielding a knife, Tesner was struck by police, leading to felony assault charges. A juvenile is in custody, and the incident marks a concerning trend for local law enforcement. Meanwhile, Dare County announces community initiatives that aim to unite residents amidst the unrest.
Colington Confrontation: Investigation Underway After Shooting Incident
In the quiet community of Colington, a recent shooting incident has sent ripples through the neighborhood as the Dare County Sheriff’s Office announces that a juvenile connected to the event is currently in custody. The incident was centered around a woman named Jennifer Leigh Tesner, who was involved in a confrontation with law enforcement on March 17, 2025.
Unfolding Events
It all kicked off when a 911 call lit up the dispatch lines, reporting a woman behaving strangely and wielding a knife on a residential property. Deputies arrived at the scene in the 300 block of Harbour Road around 7:10 p.m. to assess the situation. Initial attempts to communicate with Tesner did not go smoothly; in fact, the deputy had to resort to using a taser—not once, but twice—before eventually discharging a weapon that struck Tesner.
After the incident, she was swiftly transported to The Outer Banks Hospital for medical treatment. Notably, a concerned neighbor revealed that Tesner might have been experiencing a psychotic break at the time of the altercation, suggesting that her behavior was out of character.
Legal Proceedings
Tesner has since been charged with felony assault on a law enforcement officer and was released on an $80,000 secured bond following her arrest on April 26, 2025. Her first court appearance is slated for May 9, 2025, after a prior appearance was postponed. The investigation is ongoing, and details about the officer involved or updates from the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) remain sparse. Worryingly, this incident marks the second time in just five months that a deputy from Dare County has been involved in a shooting. In October 2024, Deputy Edward Francis Glaser III tragically shot and killed a man named Sylvester Demetrius Selby, with no subsequent charges brought against him.
Community Initiatives and Changes
Shifting gears from the unsettling events in Colington, Dare County is also making headlines for more heartwarming developments. A household hazardous waste collection event has been announced for residents from May 8 to May 10, 2025. This initiative encourages locals to safely dispose of hazardous materials, which is essential for maintaining a clean and safe community.
A Tribute to Team Spirit
In an uplifting gesture, the baseball field at First Flight High School will soon bear the name of beloved former coach Ray Scott. This change honors his contributions to the community and the sports program, symbolizing the spirit of togetherness and support within the town.
Celebrating Heritage and Closure of Iconic Eateries
Additionally, the First Flight Society is now accepting nominations for the prestigious 2026 Paul E. Garber First Flight Shrine. This gives community members a chance to recognize individuals who have significantly impacted the area and its history.
However, it’s not all good news as an iconic taco stand on Ocracoke island is set to close soon. This closure marks the end of an era for many locals and visitors, reminding everyone of the transient nature of businesses that bring joy to the community.
Keeping Families Informed
Finally, the local school district, Dare Schools, has reached out to families about two separate incidents that have taken place recently. Keeping parents informed is crucial in fostering an open dialogue regarding safety and awareness in the school environment.
As both troubling and heartwarming tales unfold in Dare County, the community continues to rally together, showcasing resilience and solidarity in challenging times while celebrating the bonds that unite them.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Outer Banks Woman Charged with Assault on Officer Post-Shooting on May 1st, 2024
Dare County Deputy Shoots 49-Year-Old Woman on Outer Banks Following Report of Suspicious Activity
Additional Resources
