Manhunt Underway In Western North Carolina

A manhunt is underway in Western, NC.

The McDowell County Sheriff says a search is underway for 41-year old Ryan Ricky Houston after a vehicle crash, home invasion, and vehicle thefts.

Houston is believed to be armed and dangerous and anyone who sees him should not approach him. Authorities say he may be traveling in a navy blue 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 truck with the wording “Skyline Marine”, “Honda” and “Bass Cat” on the back glass.

The North Carolina Highway Patrol says Houston was involved in a car crash along Interstate 40 just after 10:15 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 1, in McDowell County.

According to troopers, the car crashed into a tractor-trailer near Parker Padgett Road. Troopers confirmed there was a female passenger in the car, but would not release any information on her condition or identity.

Deputies accuse Houston of forcing his way into a home, assaulting the homeowner, then stealing a gun and vehicle. Authorities say the stolen vehicle was found on I-40 near Exit 90. McDowell County Deputies said they believe Houston then broke into Skyline Marine, located off of Exit 90, and stole the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado truck.

Houston was previously charged with shooting a Buncombe County deputy inside the magistrate’s office in May 2023. He was out on bond and then taken back into custody on Aug. 7, for 11 counts of pretrial release violations. It is unclear when Houston was released from jail after Aug. 7.

Photos: McDowell County Sheriff’s Office