Arrest Made in Deadly Catawba County Mass Shooting; FBI Seeks Public’s Help
CATAWBA COUNTY, N.C. — A Lenoir man has been arrested in connection with the devastating mass shooting that occurred early Sunday morning at a crowded house party in Catawba County. The shooting left one person dead and 11 others injured, sending shockwaves through the Mountain View community.
The Catawba County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that 20-year-old Garon Nathaniel Killian was taken into custody and charged with one count of attempted first-degree murder. Killian is currently being held without bond at the Newton Detention Facility and is scheduled to appear in Catawba County District Court on Wednesday.
Killian had previously faced multiple felony charges, including seven counts of attempted first-degree murder, seven counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, going armed to the terror of the public, and discharging a firearm within city limits. He was released on bond at the time but is now in custody again in connection with this most recent and deadly incident.
Authorities believe Killian was not acting alone. The investigation suggests there may have been multiple shooters involved in the violent attack that took place around 12:45 a.m. on Sunday, June 1, at a residence on Walnut Acres Drive.
Shawn Patrick Hood, 58, also of Lenoir, tragically lost his life in the gunfire. According to investigators, more than 80 shots were fired during the incident. The violence erupted during a large house party attended by over 100 people — many of them believed to be high school-aged.
Just hours before the shooting, deputies had responded to a noise complaint at the address around 11 p.m. They spoke with individuals at the home before departing. Less than two hours later, the scene turned deadly.
Of the 11 individuals injured, some sustained gunshot wounds, while others were hurt while trying to flee the chaos. Victims range in age from 16 to 57 years old. As of Tuesday afternoon, only one person remains hospitalized, according to statements from the FBI and local authorities.
Law enforcement agencies are continuing their investigation, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), and the Hickory Police Department. More than 70 witnesses have been interviewed so far.
The FBI is now asking the public for help. Authorities are encouraging anyone with information, videos, or photos from the party to come forward. Even seemingly minor details could prove critical in identifying additional suspects and understanding what led to the mass shooting.
“This is an active and complex investigation,” the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office stated. “We are working tirelessly to identify everyone involved and bring justice to the victims and their families.”
If you have any information related to this case, you are urged to contact the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office or the FBI.
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