Michael Ross, a 38-year-old resident of Elk Park, North Carolina, was fatally shot on February 8, 2024, in Boone. The shooting happened at about 5:48 p.m. at 5350 NC Highway 194 North. Emergency responders from the Watauga County Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the Meat Camp Fire Department and Watauga Medics responded, but Ross died at the scene.

Shortly after the shooting, 25-year-old Boone resident Alexander Matthew Jackson called 911 admitting to the shooting and was taken into custody; he faces a first-degree murder charge and is being held at the Watauga County Jail without bond. Officials say the motive is unclear and the Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation. Friends and family have created a memorial page where they have shared memories and lit candles for Ross.

If anyone has information about what happened on February 8 at 5350 NC Highway 194 North, please contact the Watauga County Sheriff’s Office at 828-264-3761.