CATAWBA COUNTY, N.C. — Deputies in Catawba County arrested two suspects hours after discovering the body of a Bronze Star recipient in the trunk of a car.
Police say Tara Jackson and Cecil Traylor Jr. were taken into custody for the murder of David Mize.
The investigation sparked after police discovered signs of foul play during a welfare check north of Conover.
Police say they made their way into Mize’s home along Swinging Bridge Road on Tuesday after no one answered the door. They say they didn’t find anyone in the home but discovered signs of a struggle and foul play.
The investigation led deputies to a towing company in Caldwell County where the 75-year-old was found dead in the trunk.
According to deputies, Mize hadn’t been seen for weeks.
Police say Traylor was arrested overnight after a chase that ended near Highway 70 and Highway 321 in Hickory.
Jackson was arrested Wednesday morning at a Dollar General along Highway 16 where she spoke with Channel 9’s Dave Faherty.
It is still unclear where the car was towed from. Neighbors say they haven’t seen the vehicle for a week.
This is a developing story. Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.
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