Fatal Shooting Early Sunday Morning In Morganton Leaves One Dead

Sunday, 26th, July 2026

MORGANTON, N.C. – A fatal shooting early Sunday morning in Morganton has left one person dead and four individuals facing criminal charges.

Around 1:00 a.m., officers with the Morganton Department of Public Safety responded after hearing multiple gunshots near West Union Street and Hillside Lane. They found an adult victim lying in the roadway and immediately began life-saving efforts until Burke County EMS arrived. The victim late died from their injuries.

Authorities have not released the victim’s identity pending notification of family members.

The following individuals have been arrested:

• Kevon Mack, 18, of Morganton – Felony Murder (No Bond)
• Braxton Garland Collins, 19, of Morganton – Felony Obstructing Justice and Misdemeanor Discharge of a Firearm Within City Limits ($ 25,000 Secured Bond)
• Justice Grant Raab, 20, of Morganton — Felony Obstructing Justice ($ 20,000 Secured Bond)
• Ayanna Nichole Parridgen, 19, of Hickory – Felony Obstructing Justice ($ 20,000 Secured Bond)

This investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information or video related to the incident is asked to contact investigator Bess at (828) 437-1211.

All persons charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

This is a developing story. Updates will be posted as additional information is released by law enforcement officials.