Zoe Makenna Braswell Arrested: Recent Graduate Charged in Catawba County Mass Shooting Conspiracy
LENOIR, N.C. — In a significant development tied to the deadly mass shooting that rocked Catawba County earlier this week, federal marshals have arrested an 18-year-old woman from Caldwell County. Zoe Makenna Braswell, a recent high school graduate, was taken into custody during a traffic stop along Highway 321 near Granite Falls on Wednesday morning. Authorities confirm she is being charged with conspiracy to commit attempted first-degree murder.
The arrest is part of a broader investigation into the shooting that occurred late Saturday night at a crowded house party on Walnut Acres Drive, south of Hickory. The violent attack left one man dead and at least eleven others injured, making it one of the most disturbing mass casualty events in the region in recent memory.
Federal Raid Unfolds in Caldwell County
Following Braswell’s arrest, federal marshals, alongside Caldwell County deputies, executed a search warrant at her home in the Cajah’s Mountain community, just south of Lenoir. Early-morning law enforcement activity in the otherwise quiet neighborhood drew immediate attention, as heavily armed officers secured the property, canvassed the area, and removed several items of potential evidence.
Among the items seized from the property were electronic devices, personal writings, and Braswell’s vehicle, which investigators believe could contain crucial evidence in the planning of the shooting. While officials have not detailed her exact role, the charges suggest she was involved in premeditated discussions or planning with the individuals responsible for carrying out the attack.
Victim Identified, Additional Arrests Made
Authorities have identified the man killed in the mass shooting as 58-year-old Shawn Patrick Hood. Hood, described by friends as a hardworking and kind-hearted man, was attending the gathering when gunfire erupted late Saturday. Emergency crews responded swiftly, but Hood was pronounced dead at the scene.
In the days since, multiple suspects have been identified and pursued. In addition to Braswell’s arrest, 20-year-old Garon Nathaniel Killian of Lenoir has been taken into custody and charged with attempted first-degree murder. Two more suspects — Toland Huff Jr. and Ke’andre O’neal Mack — remain at large and are currently wanted on similar charges.
The Catawba County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that multiple firearms were used during the shooting, and they are still working to determine how many individuals opened fire. The party, reportedly attended by dozens of young adults, turned into chaos as bullets flew, striking several people and causing widespread panic.
Community Reeling from Violence
The arrest of Zoe Braswell, who had just walked the stage at graduation weeks ago, has left both her community and school stunned. Neighbors describe her as quiet and friendly, but authorities believe she became involved with individuals who encouraged or organized the violence.
“She just graduated. To hear this… it’s heartbreaking,” said one longtime resident of Cajah’s Mountain. “Everyone is trying to understand how this happened.”
Braswell is currently being held at the Caldwell County Detention Center. Prosecutors have not yet announced whether they will seek additional charges or push to have the case elevated to superior court. If convicted, she could face significant prison time.
Ongoing Investigation
Law enforcement officials have made it clear that this is a complex, ongoing investigation with multiple suspects and pieces of evidence still being processed. They continue to urge anyone with information about the incident, the suspects, or any video or photos from the party to contact the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office immediately.
Residents in the area are advised to remain vigilant while law enforcement continues efforts to locate the remaining suspects.
Further updates are expected as authorities prepare to release additional details later this week.