Davie Man Arrested After Armed Confrontation With Deputies

ADVANCE — A larceny investigation escalated into a dangerous confrontation Thursday afternoon when a suspect allegedly attempted to draw weapons on deputies, according to the Davie County Sheriff's Office.

Authorities say deputies responded around 4:32 p.m. on February 5, 2026, to a report of a stolen laptop at a residence in the 700 block of Redland Road in Advance. Investigators were told the victim had left his laptop at the suspect’s home and later requested its return. The suspect allegedly refused, claiming the computer had been turned over to the sheriff’s office. Deputies confirmed no such property had been submitted.

During the investigation, the suspect was identified as Patrick Alan Williard, 58, of the same Redland Road address. Deputies say Williard claimed to be a federal law enforcement officer but would not identify an agency. The victim also reported that Williard had previously displayed a badge.

As deputies attempted to take Williard into custody, investigators allege he attempted to draw a pistol. Deputies were able to disarm him, but authorities say he continued to actively resist arrest. During the struggle, Williard allegedly reached for a knife concealed in his sock, which deputies knocked away. Additional units responded to assist, and Williard was ultimately taken into custody.

A search warrant was obtained to locate the laptop inside the residence. The investigation remains ongoing.

Williard faces multiple charges, including two counts of assault on a law enforcement officer with a firearm, two counts of assault with a deadly weapon on a governmental official, resisting a public officer, communicating threats, impersonating law enforcement, and two counts of assault inflicting physical injury on a law enforcement officer. He was placed in the Davie County Detention Center without bond.

The Davie County Sheriff’s Office thanked assisting agencies, including the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, Winston-Salem Police Department, and Davie EMS, for their support as the investigation continues.