A quiet night in southwest Catawba County, North Carolina, turned violent early Sunday when gunfire erupted at a crowded house party near Hickory, leaving one man dead and others injured. Authorities say at least 80 shots were fired just after:45 a.m., sending more than 100 partygoers scrambling for cover and safety.
The shooting took place on Walnut Acres Drive in the Mountain View community, about seven miles south of Hickory. The victim killed was identified as 58-year-old Shawn Patrick Hood of Lenoir, the oldest among the victims, who ranged in age from and up Injuries included both gunshot wounds and trauma from fleeing the chaotic scene.
Investigators believe the violence began from a neighboring yard, with gunfire then erupting from around the house and into the street. The crime scene stretched across multiple properties, covering roughly two acres Authorities suspect multiple shooters may have been involved, but the motive remains unclear. There are indications the incident could be gang-related, though this has not been confirmed by officials.
Law enforcement responded with a massive investigation, spanning six counties and involving at least a dozen agencies. On Tuesday, Garon Nathaniel Killian,, of Lenoir, was arrested and charged with attempted first-degree murder. 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 The FBI has offered a $15,000 reward for information leading to further arrests.
Authorities are urging anyone with information or video from the party to come forward as the search for suspects continues. The community remains on edge as investigators work to piece together what led to one of the region’s largest mass shootings in recent memory.
