A tragic mass shooting shattered the peace of Mountain View, a quiet community near Hickory, North Carolina, during the early hours of Sunday, June 1. The violence erupted at a house party on Walnut Acres Drive, where authorities say around 100 people — including children — had gathered for a pool party. The Catawba County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene shortly after 12:45 a.m.

Gunfire broke out across both the front and back yards of the property, quickly turning a festive evening into chaos. The crime scene extended into a neighboring yard, prompting an extensive investigation. Witnesses described a terrifying scene as partygoers scattered for safety amid the gunfire. Multiple firearms were used in the shooting, but investigators have yet to determine how many shooters were involved.

One person was confirmed dead at the scene, while another remains in critical condition. A total of eleven individuals were injured, many of whom are still hospitalized. Authorities have not released the names of the victims as they continue notifying families and gathering evidence. So far, no arrests have been made, and no suspects have been publicly identified.

Local and state officials are working tirelessly on the case. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation has joined forces with the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office in collecting witness statements, processing forensic evidence, and reviewing any surveillance footage from the area. Investigators are urging anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward and contact the sheriff’s office at 828-464-3112.

As the investigation continues, the community is reeling from the senseless act of violence. The presence of children at the party and the number of victims have left residents shaken and searching for answers. Thoughts and condolences continue to pour in for those affected by this devastating event, as families, neighbors, and officials try to make sense of the tragedy and find justice for the victims.