Last Updated on May 19, 2026 6:28 pm
UPDATE from Boone Police 4:05 pm:
On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at approximately 10:46 a.m., Boone officers were alerted to a reported armed robbery at Wells Fargo Bank. The suspect had fled the area on foot.
Boone Police officers, along with Watauga County Sheriff’s deputies, Appalachian Regional Medical Center police officers, and Appalachian State University Police officers, responded to the area and began searching for the suspect. A short time later, a person of interest was detained by Boone patrol officers after attempting to flee.
As a result of the investigation, Zechariah Othniel Vick, 27, of Boone, was charged with felony robbery with a dangerous weapon. Mr. Vick was taken before a Watauga County magistrate and was held without bond due to other pending charges. He was booked into the Watauga County Detention Center without incident. His court date is July 7, 2026.
“Our officers did an exemplary job responding to this incident and acted quickly and professionally to keep the public safe and apprehend the suspect. The teamwork and dedication shown today are a testament to our local law enforcement community. We would like to extend our gratitude to the NC SBI, the Watauga County Sheriff’s Office, Appalachian State University Police Department, Appalachian Regional Medical Center Police, and the Boone Fire Department for their invaluable assistance.” — Major Jon Houck
UPDATE from Boone Police 12:29 pm. – On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at approximately 10:49 a.m., Boone officers were alerted to a reported armed robbery at Wells Fargo Bank. The suspect had fled the area on foot.
Boone Police officers, along with Watauga County Sheriff’s deputies, Appalachian Regional Medical Center police officers, and Appalachian State University Police officers, responded to the area and began searching for the suspect. A short time later, a person of interest was detained by Boone patrol officers after attempting to flee.
Boone Police investigators are now interviewing witnesses and collecting evidence. An increased police presence will be visible in the area of NC 105 Extension and Blowing Rock Road. At this time, there is no known ongoing danger to the public.
“I am very thankful for the excellent cooperation among Watauga County law enforcement agencies. Their quick response helped contain this situation and keep our community safe.”— Shane Robbins, Assistant Chief of Police
We want to thank the Watauga County Sheriff’s Office, Appalachian Regional Medical Center Police, and the Appalachian State University Police Department for their assistance with this case. We also want to thank our fellow Town of Boone Public Works employees and the members of the public who provided invaluable information during this evolving incident.
Additional details will be made available later today.
WataugaOnline.com is receiving reports of an attempted robbery at the Wells Fargo bank in Boone.
We are working to obtain information from authorities and will update this story as details become available.
