Last Updated on April 28, 2026 12:33 pm
Tuesday, April 28, 2026, marks the 5th anniversary of the unexpected and tragic deaths of four individuals that left a lasting impact in Watauga County and the High Country.
K-9 Deputy Logan Fox, Sergeant Chris Ward, Michelle Ligon & George Ligon
On April 28, 2021 at 9:44 a.m., Watauga County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call for a welfare check at 553 Hardaman Circle, in Boone, when the homeowner’s employer called to report the homeowner did not report to work or respond to telephone calls. Deputies entered the residence after discovering all vehicles belonging to the residents were on the property. Upon entering the home, two Watauga County Sheriff’s deputies received gunshot wounds from a then unknown individual within the residence.
K-9 Deputy Logan Fox died at the scene while Sgt. Chris Ward died after being flown to Johnson City Medical Center for treatment. Michelle Ligon and George Ligon also died at the scene. The son/stepson of the Ligon's was responsible for the deaths of all four, while also taking his own life.
WataugaOnline.com remembers the four fallen and their impact on our community and beyond.
Deputy Logan Fox, age 25, was a two-year veteran of the Watauga County Sheriff’s Office. He was a K-9 officer who handled Watauga County Sheriff’s Office K-9 “Raven.” Prior to working at the Watauga County Sheriff’s Office he served as full-time deputy with the Ashe County Sheriff’s Office.
Sgt. Chris Ward, age 36, was an eight-year veteran in the field of law enforcement. He began his career at the Beech Mountain Police Department in 2013, later moving on to the Watauga County Sheriff’s Office where he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant.
Michelle Ligon worked as Public Relations Director for the Boone Convention & Visitors Bureau, before becoming Director of Public Relations and Social Media at Explore Boone in July 2010. She, along with George, was also known for supporting many local organizations both financially and with in person support.
George Ligon was a long time manager, over 20 years, for the local branch of Terminix pest control company. He, along with Michelle, was also known for supporting many local organizations both financially and with in person support.
It's also of note that this year will mark the 14th anniversary of the death of Deputy William Mast Jr. Mast was killed in the line of duty during the early morning hours of July 26, 2012.
