Lenoir Community Mourns the Loss of Shawn Patrick Hood in Catawba County Mass Shooting
LENOIR, N.C. — A deep sense of grief has settled over the community of Lenoir following the tragic and senseless death of Shawn Patrick Hood, 58, who was fatally shot during a mass shooting in the early hours of Sunday, June 1, 2025, in the Mountain View area of Catawba County. Hood was the sole fatality in the incident, which left eleven others injured, including one individual in critical condition.
A Night of Violence
According to the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, the shooting took place at approximately 12:45 a.m. at a private residence on Walnut Acres Drive, a typically quiet area that became the scene of chaos and bloodshed. Deputies, along with officers from the Hickory Police Department, responded to multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired and found a scene of devastation — multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds, panic, and confusion.
The motive for the shooting remains unclear, and no arrests had been made as of Monday. Law enforcement, including the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI), continues to investigate what officials are calling a “targeted and violent act.”
Remembering Shawn Patrick Hood
The death of Shawn Patrick Hood has sent shockwaves far beyond the crime scene, affecting communities throughout Lenoir, the broader banking industry, and those who benefited from his professional mentorship and personal kindness. Shawn was much more than a bystander in this tragedy—he was a pillar in the community and a seasoned professional whose career spanned more than 20 years.
At the time of his death, Hood was working remotely as a Small Business Lender Underwriter/Analyst for Mountain BizCapital, Inc., a respected financial institution based in Asheville, North Carolina, that focuses on supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Previously, he held several leadership positions with institutions such as the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)—where he played a pivotal role in processing Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) applications during the COVID-19 pandemic—and other major banks including First National Bank of Pennsylvania, Capital Bank NA, and BB&T. His work helped sustain countless small businesses during uncertain times.
A Career Built on Service and Integrity
Hood held a Bachelor of Science in Science and Technology from East Tennessee State University, where he also distinguished himself as a collegiate athlete, playing NCAA baseball as a catcher. His passion for leadership and service extended beyond the field and classroom.
He furthered his professional development through BB&T University at Wake Forest University, a testament to his unwavering commitment to lifelong learning and growth. Colleagues and clients alike knew him as an analytical thinker, a compassionate mentor, and a man deeply dedicated to helping others achieve financial stability and success.
A Personal Loss Felt by Many
Friends, family, and community members describe Shawn as driven yet humble, intelligent yet approachable, and ambitious yet grounded. He was a man whose heart was as expansive as his resume — always ready with a word of encouragement, an offer of assistance, or simply a listening ear.
“Shawn was someone you could always rely on — professionally and personally,” said a former colleague. “His loss is not just a tragedy for his family, but for the entire community he worked so hard to uplift.”
In the wake of his passing, neighbors in Lenoir have begun to erect a growing memorial in his honor, with candles, flowers, and handwritten notes placed along his home’s front steps.
Investigation Continues
Authorities have not yet released information regarding possible suspects or motives. Investigators are actively seeking leads and reviewing witness statements, surveillance footage, and forensic evidence to determine what led to the deadly violence.
“This is a tragic and senseless act of violence that has deeply affected our community,” said Captain Brian Adams of the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office. “We extend our deepest sympathies to Mr. Hood’s family and all those impacted by this horrific event. Our mission now is to seek justice.”
Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
Incident Summary
- Deceased: Shawn Patrick Hood, 58, of Lenoir, NC
- Date: Sunday, June 1, 2025
- Time: ~12:45 a.m.
- Location: Walnut Acres Drive, Mountain View area, Catawba County
- Victims: 12 total (1 deceased, 1 critical, 10 hospitalized)
- Suspect(s): Unknown
- Investigation: Ongoing by CCSO, HPD, and NCSBI
FAQs
Q: Who was Shawn Patrick Hood?
A: A respected banking and financial services professional from Lenoir, NC, who dedicated his career to supporting small businesses and economic development. He was tragically killed in a mass shooting on June 1, 2025.
Q: Has anyone been arrested?
A: No. As of now, no suspects have been publicly identified or arrested. Investigations are ongoing.
Q: How can the public help?
A: Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office or local authorities. Tips can also be submitted anonymously.
As the Lenoir community grieves, it does so not just for the loss of a life, but for the loss of a leader, a mentor, and a friend. Shawn Patrick Hood’s legacy is one of service, generosity, and unwavering dedication to others — a light that continues to shine even in the darkest of times.