Two dead, suspect at large after Woodlake shooting

February 14, 2026

UPDATE: The suspect was apprehended in Ohio by local authorities following coordination throughout the day between Moore County investigators and law enforcement partners. He was taken into custody without incident. Defendants facing criminal charges are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Two people were killed in a shooting early Saturday morning in the Woodlake community, and authorities are searching for a suspect believed to have fled the area.

Deputies with the Moore County Sheriff’s Office responded to a home in the 700 block of Daphne Lane in Woodlake, a residential gated community outside Vass.

Investigators confirmed to Sandhills Sentinel on scene that two people were found dead inside the home.

“On February 14, 2026, at approximately 7:45 a.m., Moore County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a report of a shooting at a residence on Daphne Lane in Vass,” the department later detailed in a press release. “Upon arrival, deputies located two adults, ages 28 and 21, deceased inside the residence.”

Law enforcement officers maintained a heavy presence in the neighborhood as they secured the scene and began their investigation.

Investigators cordoned off the area with police tape while working the scene of a double homicide near Vass.

“Detectives have identified Caleb Hayden Fosnaugh, 25, of Ohio, as a suspect in this case,” states the press release. “Warrants have been obtained for his arrest for Breaking and Entering and two counts of Murder in connection with the incident. Investigators do not believe Fosnaugh remained in Moore County following the shooting. Efforts are underway to locate and apprehend him.”

Fosnaugh is believed to be operating a white 2018 Ford Mustang with a black front driver-side fender. The vehicle may be displaying an Ohio license plate. Fosnaugh should be considered armed and dangerous.

Members of the public are strongly advised not to approach him. Anyone who sees Fosnaugh or the described vehicle should immediately call 911. Anonymous information may also be provided to the Moore County Sheriff’s Office tip line at 910-947-4444.

Deputies said the sheriff’s office will release additional details as the investigation continues. The names of the victims have not been released at this time. This is a developing story.

Woodlake officials extend their thanks to the sheriff’s department for their efforts to investigate the case and to keep residents informed and safe.

Crime tape cordons off the area of a double homicide in the Woodlake Community near Vass.

“This is a tragic and senseless loss of life,” said Sheriff Ronnie Fields in a press release. “Our hearts go out to the families of the victims during this difficult time. We are grateful for the swift coordination and assistance from our law enforcement partners in bringing this individual into custody.”

Sheriff Fields expressed “sincere appreciation” to the Coshocton County Sheriff’s Office in Ohio, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation for their coordination and assistance throughout the day to ensure the successful apprehension of Fosnaugh.

Feature photo: Caleb Hayden Fosnaugh. Photo via Moore County Sheriff’s Office.

On-scene information and photos by Sandhills Sentinel reporter Daniel Gwyn. Written by Sandhills Sentinel assistant Editor Abegail Murphy.

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