A North Carolina suspect was found in the ceiling of a hospital after fleeing police Sunday, May 10, 2026.
Gastonia police arrested two suspects Sunday after a Flock camera alerted Officers of two stolen motorcycles. Around noon, Police attempted a traffic stop after the stolen bikes were located. The riders took off, leading police on a chase.
A short time later, the wrecked bikes were found and a K9 Officer was brought in to track the suspects. 20-year-old Payton Beatty was found hiding in nearby bushes.
Tracker K9 Bo with the Gastonia Police Dept.Gastonia Police Dept. Facebook Page
K9 Bo tracked the second suspect to CaroMont Regional Medical Center in Gastonia. The hospital was placed on lockdown for a search of the premises. 27-year-old Christopher Adam Hooper was found hiding in a drop down ceiling of the hospital.
Drop down ceiling where suspect, Christopher Adam Hooper was found hiding in CaroMont Regional Medical Center.Gastonia Police Dept. Facebook Page
Hooper was booked into the Gaston County Jail on no bond. Charges against him include possession of a stolen motor vehicle, trespass, and obstructing a health care facility.
Official Gastonia Police Dept. Facebook Post:
Gastonia Police Dept. Facebook Page
