The community of Morganton, North Carolina, is mourning the tragic and heartbreaking loss of 18-year-old Dawson Timothy Whisenant, who lost his life following a shooting on May 19, 2026, on Mount Olive Church Road.
According to the Burke County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to 4442 Mount Olive Church Road after an initial 911 call reporting a possible cardiac arrest. During the call, it was later confirmed that a shooting had occurred, and a second caller reported that multiple people had been shot at the residence.
When deputies arrived, they located two victims suffering from gunshot wounds. One victim had sustained a wound to the leg, while the other had been critically injured in the chest. Emergency Medical Services responded immediately and provided life-saving efforts at the scene.
Despite those efforts, Dawson Timothy Whisenant was tragically pronounced deceased due to the severity of his injuries, leaving family, friends, and the community in deep shock and sorrow.
The second victim, identified as 47-year-old Timothy Floyd Whisenant of Morganton, survived the shooting with a gunshot wound to the leg. His condition has not been publicly updated.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding a suspect or motive, and no charges have been filed as the investigation remains active and ongoing under the Burke County Sheriff’s Office in coordination with the District Attorney’s Office.
News of Dawson’s passing has left loved ones devastated as they struggle to come to terms with a life cut tragically short. Those who knew him are now holding onto memories, reflecting on his life, and supporting one another through this painful time of grief.
As the investigation continues, the community has come together in mourning, offering prayers, condolences, and strength to the Whisenant family during this unimaginable loss.
While his life ended far too soon, Dawson Timothy Whisenant will be remembered for the life he lived and the memories he leaves behind.
Forever loved. Forever missed. Rest in peace, Dawson.
