On September 30, 2023, in Banner Elk, North Carolina, 51-year-old Michael "Mike" Houser was fatally shot during an altercation with his neighbor, Brenden James Smith, an off-duty detention officer with the Avery County Sheriff's Office. The incident occurred on Teaster Valley Lane around 8 p.m., reportedly stemming from a dispute over a deer that Smith had shot while bow hunting. The wounded deer crossed onto Houser's property, leading to a confrontation between the two men, which escalated into a physical fight and culminated in Smith shooting Houser. Houser was pronounced dead at the scene.
Smith remained at the scene and provided his account to responding deputies. He was placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI).
As of now, no charges have been filed, and the SBI continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting to determine if any legal action is warranted.
Michael Houser was a native of Avery County, known for his skills in building and mechanics, with a passion for fishing and spending time with his family. He is survived by his life partner, children, grandchildren, and siblings. In accordance with his wishes, his ashes will be scattered in his favorite fishing locations, with a private family gathering planned to honor his life on the coast of North Carolina.
