North Carolina Authorities Apprehend Suspect Linked to Violent Narcotics Robbery and Attempted Murder in Rocky Mount

Joshua Squire faces attempted murder and robbery charges in Pitt County after a violent attempt to steal $16,000 worth of marijuana and cash.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 31, 2026, 9:15 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from WITN

Apprehension of Armed Robbery and Shooting Suspect

A multi agency effort has led to the arrest of a 20 year old man accused of participating in a violent criminal conspiracy in eastern North Carolina. Joshua Squire was taken into custody by Pitt County authorities on Monday after warrants were issued following a shooting and attempted robbery in Rocky Mount. The arrest brings a temporary conclusion to the search for Squire, who is alleged to have played a central role in a life threatening encounter that took place last Thursday. While Squire is now behind bars, the investigation remains active as law enforcement officers work to piece together the events of the assault.

Allegations of a High Value Narcotics Heist

According to official court documents, the incident was far from a random act of violence, instead appearing to be a targeted strike aimed at a substantial cache of illegal substances and currency. Warrants specify that Squire and his associates attempted to forcibly seize more than three pounds of marijuana along with over $1,230 in cash. The total street value of the targeted items is estimated at approximately $16,000, suggesting a premeditated plan to intercept a high level narcotics transaction. The scale of the attempted theft highlights the significant criminal stakes involved in the confrontation that led to gunfire.

The Pursuit of Unidentified Accomplices

A critical component of the ongoing investigation involves the identification and capture of three additional suspects who allegedly worked in tandem with Squire. Law enforcement officials state that Squire conspired with this trio to execute the robbery at gunpoint, yet the other three individuals have not yet been named or located. The involvement of multiple armed actors during the Thursday shooting has increased the urgency for investigators to secure further descriptions or witness statements. Authorities are currently processing physical evidence and digital leads in hopes of uncovering the identities of the remaining conspirators.