On August 11, 2023, at approximately 2:30 p.m., Boone Police Department officers responded to reports of a shooting near the Bojangles on Blowing Rock Road (Highway 321) in Boone, North Carolina. Upon arrival, officers found 38-year-old Justin Wayne Newberry lying in the roadway at the intersection of Winkler's Creek Road, suffering from a gunshot wound. He was immediately transported to Watauga Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the incident stemmed from a road rage encounter between Newberry and another driver, identified as 54-year-old William Ray Bristol of Caldwell County. Bristol remained at the scene and cooperated with law enforcement officials during the investigation.
Boone Police Chief Andy Le Beau expressed condolences to Newberry's family and emphasized the seriousness of the investigation. He stated that the department was working closely with the District Attorney's office to determine the appropriate course of action. As of the latest available information, no charges had been filed, and the case remained under active investigation.
In the wake of this tragic event, the Boone community mourned the loss of Justin Newberry. Born on November 26, 1984, he was remembered as a devoted father, having recently celebrated the birth of his daughter, Ouida Neomi-Ray Newberry. His passing left a profound impact on family and friends, who cherished his memory and the time spent together.
This incident has prompted discussions about road safety and the dangers of escalating confrontations while driving. Local authorities have urged drivers to remain calm and avoid engaging in aggressive behaviors to prevent such tragedies in the future.
