The Rowan County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of 41-year-old Jerry Eugene Sutton Jr., who went missing earlier this month in what may have been a hunting accident.
The Rowan County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies were sent to 10415 Bringle Ferry Road on December 15 for a welfare check after family members said they had not reached Sutton since December 9. He was last seen going hunting with permission to stay in a detached garage on the landowner’s property. His body was found on December 16.
A social media update stated that deputies found Sutton deceased on December 16 near a tree stand. Investigators believe the death may have resulted from a fall, though the Medical Examiner will determine the official cause.
The Sheriff’s Office expressed condolences to Sutton’s family. Residents with information are urged to contact the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers; authorities said callers’ identities will remain confidential.
