William Ronald Mast Jr., a 23-year-old white male, tragically lost his life on July 26, 2012, in Deep Gap, North Carolina. Deputy Sheriff Mast was responding to a 911 call with an open line at a trailer home on Hardin Road at approximately 1:00 am. Upon arriving at the scene, he began walking towards the house when he was shot in the face. It is believed that the subject who shot him intentionally ambushed him. Another deputy who was with Mast returned fire, killing the suspect.
Deputy Mast had served with the Watauga County Sheriff's Office for three years. He is survived by his expectant wife, parents, and sibling. The North Carolina Department of Transportation named the bridge over the New River on US 421, near Boone, in honor of Deputy Mast.
The investigation into Deputy Mast's death revealed that the suspect who shot him was killed on the scene by the other deputy present. As a result, there were no further arrests or suspects in the case. The incident was classified as an ambush, and the suspect's death concluded the immediate investigation.
In the years following Deputy Mast's death, his memory has been honored in various ways. His name has been added to the Fallen Officer's Memorial, and an annual memorial foot race and motorcycle ride have been established in his honor. The Watauga County Sheriff's Office continues to remember and honor Deputy Mast's service and sacrifice.
