UNION COUNTY, N.C. — Authorities have arrested six individuals believed to be involved in a brutal assault and kidnapping that left a man severely injured and abandoned in subfreezing conditions, according to local law enforcement officials. The incident occurred in late February and has drawn significant concern from the community.
Deputies from the Union County Sheriff’s Office responded to a distress call on Hayes Road in Indian Trail, where they discovered the victim severely beaten, without any clothing, and with his hands bound. He was promptly transported to a hospital for urgent medical treatment.
Investigators reported that the victim suffered extensive injuries after being assaulted by several suspects, who allegedly struck him multiple times with a firearm before forcing him into the trunk of a car. He was later discarded along Hayes Road in a location far from familiar surroundings. Fortunately, the man managed to flag down a passing driver who reported the ordeal to authorities.
Detectives have linked the suspects to a gang and believe they were attending a party at an Airbnb in Weddington on the night of the attack. None of the accused are residents of Union County, shedding light on the wider implications of gang-related violence in the area.
Sheriff Eddie Cathey expressed gratitude for the efforts of the investigative team, emphasizing the gravity of the crime. “This was an especially violent and senseless incident,” he said. “We are committed to ensuring the safety of our community and will continue our efforts until all individuals involved are brought to justice.”
Charged with multiple offenses, including attempted murder and kidnapping, Jamaal Holley remains in custody under a bond set at $1 million. Other suspects face similar charges, such as Jackie Brown Jr. and Kenijae Howard, who are also charged with assault with a deadly weapon. Brown’s bond is set at $150,000, while Howard was placed under a $35,000 bond but has since been released.
Martell Johnson, also charged with assault with a deadly weapon, is currently detained in South Carolina and is awaiting extradition to North Carolina. Meanwhile, Natselane Mattison and Jamari Grady face the same assault charges but remain at large, prompting authorities to seek public assistance in locating them.
The investigation remains ongoing, and the sheriff’s office urges anyone with information about the case or the whereabouts of the two wanted suspects to contact them immediately. Community members are encouraged to help in efforts to bring all parties involved to justice and ensure the safety of the area.