Man Killed in Physical Altercation at Davie County Gathering

A 50-year-old man died following a physical assault during a gathering in Davie County late Saturday night. Deputies from the Davie County Sheriff’s Office were called to a disturbance on NC Highway 801 South in Advance, North Carolina, where a party had turned violent.

When deputies arrived at the scene, they were directed to an outbuilding where attendees were performing CPR on the victim, identified as Shane Crotts. According to authorities, a disturbance broke out during the gathering, which escalated into an altercation. Crotts was assaulted by another individual, resulting in fatal injuries.

Despite the life-saving efforts of the partygoers and the deputies who arrived on the scene, Crotts was pronounced dead shortly after their arrival. The incident shocked attendees, many of whom witnessed the violent confrontation unfold.

Following the altercation, the suspect, identified as 26-year-old Joel Johnson, fled the area before authorities arrived. Deputies launched an immediate search for Johnson, and a few hours later, they were able to locate him in the Todd Road area of Davie County.

Johnson was arrested without incident and charged with first-degree murder in connection with Crotts’ death. He is currently being held at the Davie County Detention Center without bond. Investigators have not yet released further details regarding the motive behind the assault or what led to the initial disturbance at the gathering.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal assault. They have encouraged anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.