Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina Press Release Re: Officer Francisco Flattes Murdered
Federal Inmate Escapes During Medical Visit, Fatally Shoots Cherokee County Officer
CHEROKEE COUNTY, NC — A federal inmate escaped custody at a medical clinic in Peachtree on Monday, fatally shooting a Cherokee County Detention Officer before fleeing in a stolen vehicle. He was later captured in another county following a law enforcement pursuit.
The inmate, identified as 48-year-old Kelvin Simmons, had been transported by Cherokee County Detention Officers Francisco FLATTES and George FIENAUER to an orthopedic office in Peachtree for medical treatment when a violent altercation occurred. During the incident, Simmons overpowered the officers, took one of their firearms, and shot Officer Flattes.
After the shooting, Simmons fled into the clinic parking lot and commandeered a vehicle that had just arrived on the scene. He drove away and was later spotted in Clay County, NC. A pursuit was initiated by the North Carolina Highway Patrol, assisted by Cherokee County, Clay County, and continued into Macon County, where Macon assisted the chase. There, the suspect’s vehicle was disabled by Captain David Williams of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office. Following a brief standoff, Simmons was taken into custody by Macon County Sheriff’s Office.
Simmons is a federal inmate with a history of bank robbery charges and was awaiting trial for a previous escape attempt in October 2024. He now faces a charge of first-degree murder, with further charges expected.
Officer Francisco Flattes is remembered for his honorable and dedicated service to Cherokee County. His loss is deeply felt by the sheriff’s office and the community. He is survived by his wife, who also serves with the department, as well as his children, grandchildren, and a son-in-law who serves as a Deputy Sheriff.
Officer George Fienauer sustained injuries during the altercation and is currently recovering.
“This is the hardest day of my career, we are all mourning the loss of Francisco and doing everything we can to support each other and the family and loved ones of Officer Flattes” – Sheriff Dustin Smith