A significant breakthrough has been made in a recent murder investigation as another suspect involved in the case has turned himself in. James Richard Gann, a 19-year-old resident of Cornelius, voluntarily surrendered to the authorities at the Iredell County Detention Center in Statesville. He now faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury, discharging a firearm into occupied property resulting in injury, and attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon.

The Tragic Incident

The incident occurred on November 4, 2023, when two young individuals, Zachary Craig, 20, and Alexander Hipple, 18, arranged to meet with the suspects in a parking lot located at 204 Mills Avenue in Troutman. The purpose of the meeting was to sell marijuana to the suspects. However, upon their arrival, the suspects approached the victims’ vehicle and brandished firearms, coercing the victims to hand over the drugs. In an attempt to escape from the scene of the attempted robbery, the victims accelerated their vehicle. Unfortunately, one of the suspects opened fire, resulting in Hipple being struck three times and Craig being hit once. Tragically, Hipple succumbed to his injuries.

Arrests and Investigation

Following the incident, the Troutman Police Department, in collaboration with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NC SBI), swiftly initiated an investigation to bring the culprits to justice. The authorities identified one of the suspects as a 17-year-old juvenile, who was apprehended on November 7 without any complications. Currently held in a juvenile detention center, he is awaiting the transfer of his case to the Superior Court, where he will be tried as an adult.

The second suspect, James Richard Gann, was subsequently identified by law enforcement officials. His recent surrender to the authorities led to his immediate incarceration at the Iredell County Detention Center, where he is being held without bond. Gann’s initial appearance in District Court is scheduled for today, November 17.

Appreciation for Collaborative Efforts

The Troutman Police Department expressed their gratitude towards several agencies that provided invaluable assistance during this investigation. They extended their appreciation to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, the Atlanta Police Department, and the Texas Department of Public Safety for their collaborative efforts in attempting to locate Gann while he was on the run. Furthermore, the Cornelius Police Department was acknowledged for their support in executing a search warrant within their jurisdiction.

In addition, the Troutman Police Department thanked the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol for their unwavering commitment in securing multiple crime scenes on the night of the incident, ensuring a thorough and comprehensive investigation.