A bomb threat phoned in to a house on Misti Brook Lane in Morganton sent deputies into an hours-long search that turned up no explosive device, and now investigators say a 69-year-old local man is wanted in connection with the scare. Detectives have obtained a warrant charging him with making a false bomb report, a felony, and as of publication on Feb. 20, 2026, he had not been taken into custody. The call triggered a multi-hour law enforcement response while authorities worked to determine whether they were facing a real bomb or a bogus tip.
Deputies arrived at the Misti Brook Lane address around 9 a.m. and did not clear the scene until about 1 p.m., after conducting a detailed sweep and finding no device, according to WCNC. The station reports that the property owner received the bomb threat by phone and that investigators searched both the residence and the surrounding area before finally declaring it safe.
The suspect is identified as John Anthony Pons Sr., 69, of Morganton, according to the Burke County Sheriff's Office. Deputies say a warrant has been issued for his arrest on one count of making a false bomb report, and the sheriff's office released a mugshot of Pons to local media, crediting the department.
As of the WCNC report, Pons had not yet been located. Anyone with information is asked to call (828) 438-5500 and then press 9 to reach a non-emergency dispatcher. Tips can also be directed to the Burke County Sheriff's Office through its main line listed on the county website.
Charges and State Law
Under North Carolina law, making a false report about a destructive device is a Class H felony, as outlined in N.C.G.S. § 14-69.1 on the North Carolina General Assembly website. The statute covers knowingly false claims that a bomb or similar device is located in or near a building or public facility, and it provides for tougher penalties in certain repeat cases or when public buildings are involved.
Investigation Ongoing
Investigators say the case remains active and that deputies are still following up on leads in the Morganton area. Anyone who noticed suspicious activity near Misti Brook Lane or who has information about the whereabouts of John Anthony Pons Sr. is urged to contact the Burke County Sheriff's Office.
