Last Updated on May 5, 2025 3:46 pm
WATAUGA COUNTY, NC — On May 4, 2025, at approximately 12:40 p.m., deputies with the Watauga County Sheriff’s Office, Boone Police Department along with Watauga Medics, Boone Fire Department, and Watauga Rescue Squad, responded to the area of Health Center Drive and White Laurel Lane following a report of an unresponsive male. Caller indicated that the individual was not conscious or breathing, and that CPR had been initiated by a bystander.
Upon arrival, first responders determined that the incident was assault-related. Despite extensive life-saving measures by medical personnel, the victim tragically succumbed to his injuries.
The victim has been identified as Darian Lee Edwards, 40, of Hickory, NC.
Following an intensive investigation, Christopher Phillip Ervin, age 46, of Boone NC, has been taken into custody and charged with Felony Murder.
Ervin is currently being held at the Watauga County Detention Center under $1,000.000 bond at this time.
Sheriff Len Hagaman stated, “We are grateful for the dedicated efforts of our deputies, investigators, and partner agencies who worked tirelessly on this case. This swift arrest is the result of our office’s commitment to seeking justice for the victim and ensuring the safety of our community.”
The Watauga County Sheriff’s Office extends its sympathies to the family and loved ones of Darian Edwards and hopes that this arrest brings some measure of relief as the judicial process moves forward.
The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Watauga County Sheriff’s Office at 828-264-3761.
