Shots Fired Investigation Leads to Arrest in Cherokee County

Cherokee County Sheriff's Office

Press Release

On Thursday, August 20, 2026, at approximately 2:09 p.m., deputies with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of shots fired near the intersection of U.S. 64 and N.C. 294.

Dispatch received information from a passerby who reported seeing a female exit a gold-colored Cadillac truck at the intersection. According to the initial report, a male inside the vehicle fired multiple rounds from the vehicle before leaving the area on U.S. 64 toward Murphy.

Deputy Anthony Blomgren located and spoke with the female involved, who provided information regarding the identity of the male driver and advised deputies that he was traveling toward the Dollar General store on Blairsville Highway.

Lieutenant Cody Williams subsequently located the vehicle and the male suspect, identified as Levi L. Christy. Christy had sustained a laceration to his wrist, which he stated was self-inflicted. EMS responded to the scene and treated the injury. Christy declined further medical transportation and signed a medical refusal form.

During the investigation, deputies recovered a Taurus 9mm handgun and an empty magazine. The firearm was checked through NCIC and was not reported stolen. Investigators later located three spent 9mm shell casings at the location where the shots were reportedly fired.

During the investigation, Christy made statements indicating that he had discharged the firearm from inside the vehicle. Based upon the investigation and statements obtained, Sgt. Tucker placed Christy under arrest and transported him to the Cherokee County Detention Center.

Following a probable-cause hearing, Magistrate Josh Postell found probable cause for the following charges:

• Felony Discharge Firearm Within an Enclosure to Incite Fear

• Misdemeanor Disorderly Conduct

• Misdemeanor Go Armed to the Terror of the People

Christy was issued a $10,000 secured bond and is scheduled to appear in Cherokee County District Court on September 8, 2026.

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the deputies, supervisors, investigators, dispatchers, and EMS personnel who assisted with this incident.

All persons charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.