The Morganton community is mourning the tragic loss of Dawson Timothy Whisenant, who died Monday evening following an accidental firearm discharge at a residence on Mount Olive Church Road, according to the Burke County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded on May 19, 2026, to a 911 call from a property located at 4442 Mount Olive Church Road that was initially reported as a medical emergency involving a possible cardiac arrest. While dispatchers remained on the line, the caller informed authorities that a shooting had occurred. A second emergency call soon followed, reporting that multiple individuals had been shot.

When deputies arrived, they discovered two men suffering from gunshot wounds inside a structure on the property.

Authorities identified the deceased victim as 18-year-old Dawson Timothy Whisenant of Morganton. Emergency personnel pronounced him dead at the scene after he sustained a gunshot wound to the chest.

The second victim, identified as 47-year-old Timothy Floyd Whisenant, suffered a gunshot wound to the leg and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

According to investigators, family members at the scene stated that the incident occurred inside a shed behind the residence while a handgun was being placed into a lockbox. Authorities say the firearm discharged unintentionally, with the bullet first striking Timothy Floyd Whisenant in the leg before continuing and striking Dawson Whisenant in the chest. The round then reportedly impacted a wall inside the structure.

Investigators said a relative, identified as William Whisenant, was handling the firearm at the time and was attempting to secure it when the discharge occurred. Family members reportedly performed CPR and other lifesaving efforts until emergency responders arrived.

Another relative, Austin Whisenant, later emphasized the importance of safe firearm handling practices following the tragedy.

The Burke County Sheriff’s Office conducted an extensive on-scene investigation lasting approximately six hours. Authorities collected multiple items of evidence, including a Smith & Wesson M&P 9 handgun and the lockbox believed to have been involved in the accidental discharge.

Officials confirmed that no criminal charges have been filed at this time. The investigation remains active in coordination with the District Attorney’s Office, and additional findings may be released as the case progresses.

The tragic death of Dawson Timothy Whisenant has left family members, friends, and the Morganton community grieving the sudden loss of a young life. As loved ones mourn, many are also reflecting on the importance of firearm safety, including proper storage, secure handling, and ensuring weapons are unloaded when not in use.

May he rest in peace.