According to a notice released by the company, the decision follows Solero’s acquisition last October of Netherlands-based Kendrion’s automotive business, which included the Kendrion Automotive facility in Shelby. The plant currently employs 102 workers.

Following interviews, evidence review, and consultation with the District Attorney’s Office, investigators identified Chad Ledbetter as a suspect. Warrants were issued on October 3, 2025, for Death by Distribution and Sell or Deliver a Controlled Substance.

The McDowell County Sheriff’s Office charged two Old Fort men following a traffic stop on Saturday, September 27.

The case began on October 24, 2024, when Detective Matt Smith of the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop in the West Marion area for traffic violations.

Deputies from the Road Patrol Division and Investigations Division, along with the Sheriff, canvassed the area around midday and identified two juveniles as suspects. Evidence was collected linking them to the reported crimes, and interviews were conducted.