Brandon Lee Byrd, a 32-year-old male of African American ethnicity from Sugar Grove, NC, tragically died on January 15, 2015. He was an auto body shop technician and a graduate of North Iredell High School, where he played basketball. Byrd was greatly loved and will be missed by many.
The circumstances surrounding his death were part of a tragic incident in the Bethel Community of Watauga County. Byrd and his associate, Dustin Gatton, traveled to the Bethel Community in the early morning hours to meet with Candice Danielle Rogers. Rogers directed them to the residence of William David Cable. Once there, Travis Lane Ward, armed with a pistol, approached the group and demanded Gatton's property at gunpoint. As Byrd attempted to flee, William Cable shot him in the back, resulting in his death.
Following the incident, police found Byrd's pockets turned outwards, indicating that his property was taken. Four individuals were charged in connection with Byrd's murder and robbery: William Cable, Travis Ward, Jessica Oakes, and Candice Rogers. Each faced charges of murder and robbery with a dangerous weapon. William Cable pled guilty to second-degree murder and received a sentence of 18 to 22 years in prison. Travis Ward, Jessica Oakes, and Candice Rogers also pled guilty to various charges and received sentences ranging from 22 months to 70 months in prison.
The case deeply affected the Bethel community, known for its strong character and traditions. The efforts of the Watauga County Sheriff’s Office and Assistant District Attorney Matt Rupp were instrumental in bringing the defendants to justice. The community continues to mourn the loss of Brandon Lee Byrd and offer support to his family and friends.
