Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office investigating fatal shooting

MGN

CHEROKEE COUNTY — The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) is investigating a fatal shooting in Andrews.

They say on Friday, June 26, 2026, at approximately 11:14 a.m., deputies with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office responded to Wakefield Road in Andrews following a report of a gunshot victim.

Upon arrival, deputies located Jeffrey Wade McTaggart, 49, deceased in the backyard of the residence.

They say the individual who admitted to firing the weapon remained on scene and immediately called 911 to report the incident. The individual told investigators that an altercation had occurred between the two men and that he discharged his firearm in self-defense.

The CCSO, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and the Office of the District Attorney are working to determine the circumstances surrounding McTaggart’s death.

At this time, no arrests have been made.

The investigation remains active and ongoing.

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office asks anyone with information relevant to this investigation to contact the Sheriff’s Office at (828) 837-2589. You may remain anonymous.