A mass shooting at a house party in Catawba County, North Carolina, left one person dead and eleven others injured early Sunday morning, sending shockwaves through the usually quiet neighborhood just south of Hickory Authorities say more than 80 shots were fired around:45 a.m. as over 100 people gathered on Walnut Acres Drive, with panic erupting as partygoers ran for cover and scrambled to escape.
The victim killed was identified as 58-year-old Shawn Hood of Lenoir Seven of the injured remained hospitalized as of Sunday afternoon, with some suffering gunshot wounds and others hurt while fleeing the scene The wounded ranged in age from upward.
Law enforcement, including the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, and the FBI, are actively investigating. Authorities believe the shooting was targeted at those attending the party, not a random act, and may have involved multiple shooters firing from different locations, including a neighboring yard The crime scene spans several properties and covers about two acres.
A 20-year-old man, Garon Nathaniel Killian, has been arrested on an attempted murder charge, while three additional suspects—Raekwon Malik Craig, Toland Huff Jr., and Patrick Lee Tolbert—are being sought in connection with the shooting and for organizing the party Investigators are also considering a possible gang connection but have not confirmed a motive.
The FBI is offering a $15,000 reward for information leading to further arrests, and authorities are urging anyone with videos or photos from the party to come forward The investigation remains ongoing as the community seeks answers and justice.
