The suspects, Chad Allen MacJarrett and Donaven James Purcell, were taken into custody without incident. Both were charged with one count of second-degree murder and were denied bond. Their court date is set for Aug. 25 at the Burke County Courthouse.

The alert was issued on June 23, 2025, after Watson was last seen near the 2700 block of Poors Ford Road in Rutherfordton. His most recent known location was reported close to 2812 Poors Ford Road.

The section includes access to several of the parkway’s most popular destinations, such as Devil’s Courthouse, Ferrin Knob, Graveyard Fields, Black Balsam, and the Art Loeb Trail. It also serves as the primary route to the Pisgah Inn.

Adding to the challenge, a nearby bus stop often drops off individuals from a local homeless shelter who remain in the area throughout the day until they are picked up in the evening. Hardin said the situation requires “managing with kid gloves” to balance compassion with safety.

“I’m honored to join the Rutherford Orthopedics team and continue serving patients in this community-centered environment,” Dr. Kayser said. “My goal is to provide thoughtful, evidence-based care tailored to each individual.”