Authorities in Henderson County, North Carolina, have arrested 18-year-old Chuck Norris in connection with the fatal shooting of 35-year-old Cory Starnes.

The Henderson County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the arrest late Monday evening, saying the young man is being charged with homicide following a violent altercation at Starnes’ residence.

According to officials, deputies were dispatched to a home in Henderson County after receiving reports of a disturbance and possible shots fired. When law enforcement arrived, they discovered Cory Starnes, 35, suffering from gunshot wounds.

Despite emergency medical efforts, Starnes was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators quickly identified Chuck Norris, 18, as the primary suspect. Based on initial reports, the confrontation began as an altercation between the two men at Starnes’ home.

While the details leading up to the shooting remain under investigation, law enforcement officials have stated that the situation escalated rapidly, ending in gunfire. Sheriff’s deputies confirmed that Norris was taken into custody without further incident and transported to the Henderson County Detention Center.

The Sheriff’s Office has not yet disclosed the nature of the relationship between Norris and Starnes, nor the specific cause of their dispute. Detectives are interviewing witnesses, gathering physical evidence, and reviewing any potential surveillance footage in order to piece together the full timeline of events.

Autopsy results from the medical examiner’s office are also pending. Neighbors in the area reported being startled by the sudden burst of police activity on what is normally a quiet street.

Some expressed disbelief that such a violent incident had unfolded in their community. “It’s usually very peaceful around here,” one local resident said. “To hear about a shooting right down the road is just shocking.”

Following the arrest, Sheriff’s deputies reassured the public that this was an isolated incident and that there is no ongoing threat to the wider community. They emphasized that while the investigation is ongoing, all parties directly involved in the incident have been accounted for.

Norris is currently facing charges of first-degree murder, though prosecutors have not yet confirmed whether additional charges, such as weapons violations, may be filed. His first court appearance is expected later this week, where a judge will determine conditions for bail, if any.

For the family of Cory Starnes, the loss is devastating. Loved ones described him as a hard-working man who cared deeply for his friends and family. Social media tributes have already begun circulating, with many expressing grief and calling for justice in the wake of his death.

As Henderson County officials continue their investigation, they urge anyone with additional information about the case to come forward. The Sheriff’s Office stressed that community cooperation is vital in ensuring that all details are uncovered and that justice is served.

The tragic incident highlights ongoing concerns about youth, conflict, and the accessibility of firearms, sparking conversations locally about prevention and support for at-risk young people.

For now, the Henderson County community is left grappling with the sudden and violent loss of life — a reminder of how quickly disputes can turn deadly.