Catawba County, NC – A North Carolina man and woman have been arrested for allegedly murdering a decorated Vietnam War veteran, hiding his body in a car trunk, and then returning to his home to steal his belongings. The shocking crime has left the local community mourning the loss of 75-year-old David Mize, a man described as a “solid individual” and lifelong helper to his neighbors.
The Incident: Veteran Found Dead in Mall Parking Lot
According to the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to conduct a welfare check at David Mize’s home on Swinging Bridge Road earlier this week. Upon arrival, deputies discovered signs of foul play but no sign of Mize himself.
An investigation quickly led authorities to a second location, the Valley Hills Mall parking lot in Catawba County, where they discovered Mize’s body hidden in the trunk of his car. Officials believe that Tara Jackson and Cecil Ray Traylor Jr., both 35 years old, murdered Mize at his home, placed his body in his car, and abandoned the vehicle at the mall before fleeing.
The vehicle was later found at a tow lot in Caldwell County, north of Catawba, as police continued tracing their movements.
Investigation and Evidence Collected
Authorities believe the suspects returned to Mize’s home after the killing to steal items and cover their tracks. Surveillance and witness reports helped investigators identify Jackson and Traylor as suspects.
Both were arrested and charged with murder, the sheriff’s office confirmed. Video footage obtained by WSOC-TV captured the moment of Jackson’s arrest. When confronted by a reporter, she appeared defensive:
“Did you know David Mize?” the reporter asked.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Jackson replied.
When pressed further about her involvement, she responded, “No. I have a 7-week-old baby I’m trying to get back home to.”
Investigators said the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office are assisting with the ongoing case to determine the motive and timeline of events.
Court Proceedings and Charges Filed
As of Wednesday, both Tara Jackson and Cecil Ray Traylor Jr. remain in custody and are facing first-degree murder charges in connection with Mize’s death.
Authorities are also considering additional charges related to theft and evidence tampering. The Catawba County District Attorney’s Office is expected to announce further updates once the case moves forward.
Sheriff’s officials said the murder appeared to be planned and deliberate, with evidence showing the pair attempted to conceal the crime and profit from Mize’s belongings after his death.
Community Reaction: Remembering a Decorated Veteran
The murder of David Mize, a Vietnam War veteran, has deeply affected residents of Catawba County. Friends and neighbors described Mize as a selfless and dependable man who had served his country and continued helping others long after his military service.
“It was a big loss for all of us, for anyone who really knew who he was,” said Mize’s longtime friend, Sherrill Baxter. “He was a solid individual. He really was.”
Baxter remembered Mize as a man whose life was still shaped by his military discipline.
“Everything he did was somewhat militarily involved,” Baxter said. “There were times he had to come get me if I broke down or something. I’d call him up and he’d be right there.”
Local veterans and community groups have expressed their grief, calling Mize’s death a “senseless act of betrayal” against someone who dedicated his life to service.
Background Context: Veteran Crime Victims on the Rise
Crimes targeting elderly and retired veterans have risen in several states, with law enforcement agencies noting that older individuals who live alone are particularly vulnerable to theft and violence.
Authorities in Catawba County are urging residents to check on elderly neighbors regularly and report any suspicious behavior in their communities. The sheriff’s office also reminded citizens about available programs for veterans and seniors that offer safety checks and welfare support.
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
Investigators have not yet revealed the cause of death or whether any additional individuals were involved. Officials say they are continuing to analyze evidence collected from Mize’s home and vehicle, including forensic samples and digital data.
The Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, alongside state investigators, will provide updates as the case progresses. For now, both suspects remain jailed without bond, and a court appearance is expected in the coming weeks.
Conclusion
The murder of David Mize, a 75-year-old Vietnam veteran, has left a community reeling and searching for answers. As authorities continue piecing together what happened, residents hope justice will be swift for a man who served his country with honor — only to be betrayed by those he may have trusted.
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