At Least 12 Shot Near Hickory: Police Investigating Mass Shooting

David

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Post on Jun 02, 2025

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At Least 12 Shot Near Hickory: Police Investigating Mass Shooting

Hickory, NC (October 26, 2023) – A mass shooting near Hickory, North Carolina, has left at least 12 people injured, sending shockwaves through the community and prompting a large-scale police investigation. The incident, which occurred late Tuesday night, is raising serious concerns about gun violence and public safety.

The Catawba County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of multiple gunshot victims around 11:45 PM near the intersection of Highway 70 and 16th Street SE. Upon arrival, officers found numerous individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. The scene was described as chaotic, with witnesses reporting hearing a barrage of gunfire.

Victims and Condition:

While the exact number of victims remains under investigation, authorities have confirmed at least 12 individuals were shot. Their conditions range from stable to critical, with several victims undergoing emergency surgery at area hospitals. The identities of the victims have not yet been publicly released, pending notification of next of kin. The ages of the victims are also currently unknown.

The Investigation:

The Catawba County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation, assisted by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI). A massive search for the suspect(s) is underway. Authorities are appealing to the public for any information, including video footage from security cameras or dashcams in the area. A motive remains unclear at this time.

Community Response:

The Hickory community is reeling from the tragedy. Local residents expressed shock and grief, describing the normally quiet area as being transformed into a scene of panic and fear. Several community support groups have sprung up to offer assistance to victims and their families. Grief counseling services are being made available to those affected by the shooting.

Gun Violence in North Carolina:

This mass shooting highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence in North Carolina and across the nation. The state has seen a rise in gun-related incidents in recent years, prompting calls for stricter gun control measures and increased funding for community violence prevention programs. [Link to a relevant NC gun violence statistics article]

What You Can Do:

• Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on the investigation by following reputable news sources.
• Share information: If you have any information that could assist law enforcement, contact the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office immediately.
• Support the community: Offer support to victims and their families through local support groups or community initiatives.

This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as they become available. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide accurate information as it is released by law enforcement.

Keywords: Hickory shooting, mass shooting, North Carolina, Catawba County, gun violence, police investigation, NCSBI, Highway 70, 16th Street SE, community support

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