On October 7, 2024, at approximately 11:25 a.m., the Burke County Sheriff's Office responded to a reported shooting at 5319 Mountain View Boulevard in Morganton, North Carolina. Upon arrival, deputies discovered 69-year-old Joel "Lynn" McNabb deceased from an apparent gunshot wound inside his residence.
McNabb was a respected member of the community, known for his dedication to helping others.
He had worked in the furniture industry for over two decades before retiring early to care for his wife, Leslie, who was living with ALS. After her passing, he became a Certified Nursing Assistant and worked at Grace Ridge until a shoulder injury led to full retirement. McNabb also served as a deacon at Laurel Haven Baptist Church and was actively involved in coaching youth sports, including baseball, football, and wrestling.
Shortly after the discovery of McNabb's body, investigators identified 34-year-old Teddy Justin Rathbone of Black Mountain, North Carolina, as the primary suspect in the shooting. By 5:30 p.m. the same day, Rathbone was located and arrested by the McDowell County Sheriff's Office. He was charged with murder and is currently being held without bond in the Burke County Jail.
The investigation into the motive behind the shooting is ongoing. Rathbone has a history of prior criminal charges, including narcotics offenses and larceny earlier in the year. During a court appearance following his arrest, Rathbone expressed remorse, stating, "If I could take it back, I would."
McNabb's death has left a significant impact on the Morganton community, where he was admired for his generosity and commitment to service. He is survived by his mother, four sons, ten grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and two brothers. A celebration of his life was held on October 19, 2024, at Kirksey Funeral Home in Morganton.
