Shooting Update Burke County

UPDATE March 23, 2026:

The District Attorney’s Office has reviewed the case and has ruled the shooting to be self-defense. The victim in this case has been identified as Michael Sincko, III, 52, of Caldwell County.

On March 1, 2026, at approximately 2:00 p.m., deputies with the Burke County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported shooting at 1547 Brown Mountain Beach Road, Morganton.

Upon arrival, deputies located a male subject suffering from gunshot wounds. Burke County Emergency Medical Services responded and attempted life-saving measures; however, the victim succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation responded to the scene and assisted with the investigation.

The Burke County Sheriff’s Office is working in coordination with the Burke County District Attorney’s Office regarding potential charges in this case.

The investigation is ongoing, and no additional information will be released at this time.

Agencies Involved:

Burke County Sheriff’s Office

Burke County EMS

NC State Bureau of Investigation

Oak Hill Fire and Rescue

Burke County Rescue Squad