LINVILLE, N.C. — A former Grandfather Mountain Highland Games employee is now facing charges of attempted murder and possession of a weapon of mass of destruction, according to authorities.
According to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, officials were notified Thomas Dewey Taylor Jr., 43, was suspected of embezzling money and committing financial credit card theft.
SBI said in a news release that an agent responded and an improvised explosive device was discovered with "ignitable liquids was/were located initiating a multi-agency response."
The location of where the device was discovered was not disclosed by officials.
SBI, Avery County Sheriff's Office, ATF and local emergency services responded after discovering the device.
WCNC Charlotte learned on Thursday, Sept. 30, that Taylor is facing three counts of attempted murder and one count of possession of a weapon of mass destruction.
He was taken to Avery County Jail and being held under a $500,000 secured bond.
No other information is being released at this time.
Note: WCNC instituted a new policy in March 2021 regarding the broadcast or posting of mugshots.
WCNC will only air or post a mugshot if the person has been formally charged with a crime and in a few other cases. The exceptions include: If it appears the person could be a danger to themselves or others or if they are wanted by authorities; to differentiate between people with a common name; if the photos could encourage more victims to come forward. The news-editorial leadership may also decide to use a mugshot based on the severity of the crime(s) committed and/or the level of public interest in the crime and ensuing criminal proceedings.
