18-Year-Old Dawson Whisenant Killed in Tragic Accidental Shooting Incident in Morganton, North Carolina

 A tragic accidental firearm discharge in Burke County, North Carolina, claimed the life of 18-year-old Dawson Timothy Whisenant on Monday evening, leaving family members and the Morganton community grieving a devastating and sudden loss. Authorities say another man was also injured during the incident, which remains under active investigation by the Burke County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded on May 19, 2026, to a residence located at 4442 Mount Olive Church Road after receiving a 911 call initially reported as a possible cardiac emergency. While emergency dispatchers were still speaking with the caller, officials said the situation was updated to indicate that a shooting had occurred. A second emergency call shortly afterward reported multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds.

When deputies and emergency personnel arrived at the property, they located two male victims inside a shed behind the residence. Authorities said one victim had suffered a gunshot wound to the chest, while the second victim sustained a gunshot wound to the leg during the incident.

Officials identified the deceased victim as 18-year-old Dawson Timothy Whisenant of Morganton. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene. The second victim, identified as 47-year-old Timothy Floyd Whisenant, was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of injuries to his leg.

According to statements gathered from family members at the scene, investigators believe the shooting happened accidentally while a handgun was being secured inside a lockbox. Authorities stated the firearm reportedly discharged unintentionally, with the bullet first striking the older victim in the leg before continuing and fatally striking Dawson in the chest.

Family members told investigators that a relative identified as William Whisenant was handling the firearm at the time and was attempting to place it into storage when the discharge occurred. Authorities said relatives immediately attempted lifesaving efforts, including CPR, while waiting for emergency responders to arrive at the property.

Burke County deputies remained at the scene for several hours conducting an extensive investigation. Officials said investigators collected multiple pieces of evidence, including the handgun believed to have been involved and the lockbox connected to the incident. Authorities confirmed that no criminal charges have been filed at this time as detectives continue reviewing evidence in coordination with the District Attorney’s Office.

The heartbreaking incident has left loved ones mourning the loss of Dawson Whisenant while also serving as a painful reminder about the importance of safe firearm storage and handling practices. Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and stated that additional information may be released as officials continue working to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the accidental shooting in Morganton.