Newton Police Investigating Shooting and Possible Kidnapping at Travel Stop

Authorities in Newton are investigating a shooting and possible kidnapping that occurred Monday afternoon at the Love’s Travel Stop on Southfork Drive.

According to the Newton Police Department, officers were dispatched around 1:15 p.m. on May 11 after receiving reports of a possible kidnapping and shooting at the truck stop.

When officers arrived, they discovered a vehicle that had crashed into a utility pole. Inside the vehicle, investigators found a man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds along with an infant who appeared to be unharmed.

Emergency crews began life-saving efforts at the scene before transporting the injured man to Catawba Valley Medical Center. Officials say he was later airlifted to Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center for further treatment.

Police said the infant and an adult female connected to the incident were also transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Investigators say preliminary findings indicate the male victim had traveled to the area to meet another individual. After arriving at the travel stop, an armed suspect allegedly entered the back seat of the victim’s vehicle and pointed a firearm at him. Authorities say a second armed suspect then attempted to pull a female passenger from the vehicle.

During the encounter, investigators say the victim drove away and the female passenger was ejected from the vehicle.

The names of those involved have not been released due to ongoing safety concerns.

The investigation remains active. Anyone with information or who may have witnessed the incident is asked to contact Investigator C. Davis with the Newton Police Department at 828-465-7430.