Cecil Ray Traylor Jr-Tara Melinda Jackson
According to the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, 34-year-old Cecil Ray Traylor Jr of Eckard Road in Conover and 35-year-old Tara Melinda Jackson, who is listed as a Catawba County resident, have been arrested and charged with murder in connection to the death of David Mize.
Taylor is also charged with two felony counts of flee to elude arrest with a motor vehicle, one from Catawba County and one from Burke County, assault on a government official or employee, cruelty to animals, and abandonment of an animal. In addition, he’s charged with several highway violations including reckless driving to endanger, driving while impaired, and reckless driving with wanton disregard.
On Tuesday, Catawba County Deputies responded to a residence on Swinging Bridge Road in reference to a welfare check request. That residence is owned by David Mize. Deputies made entry into the home after being unable to get anyone to the door. Deputies did not find anyone at the residence but discovered signs of foul play.
The investigation led Deputies to a location in Caldwell County where the body of David Mize was found. Traylor and Jackson are confined without bond at the Catawba County Detention Facility. They have court appearances Thursday.
Story: Rob Eastwood-WHKY