Woodleaf Man Arrested After Meth, Firearm Found During Traffic Stop in Cooleemee

A Woodleaf man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say methamphetamine and a concealed firearm were discovered during a traffic stop in Cooleemee.

According to Sheriff JD Hartman, on May 6, 2026, the Davie County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division was working in the area of Cross Street and Main Street in Cooleemee when detectives conducted a traffic stop on a silver Dodge Caliber for failing to stop at a stop sign.

Investigators identified the driver as 34-year-old Chad Andrew Gage of the 400 block of Four Oaks Road in Woodleaf. Deputies say they learned Gage was operating the vehicle while his driver’s license was revoked or suspended.

During the stop, detectives observed drug paraphernalia in plain view, giving them probable cause to search the vehicle. A search led to the discovery of a quantity of methamphetamine, along with a concealed .22 rifle hidden on the passenger side of the vehicle. Authorities also determined Gage is a convicted felon, prohibited from possessing firearms.

Gage was arrested and charged with:

• Felony Possession of Methamphetamine

• Felony Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon

• Misdemeanor Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

• Misdemeanor Conceal Handgun Permit Violation

  
  

He was issued no bond on all charges and is scheduled to appear in Davie County District Court on May 28, 2026.

The investigation is ongoing with the Davie County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division.