FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Rowan County Sheriff’s Office
Sheriff: Travis Allen
Homicide Suspect Arrested on Scene
China Grove, N.C. (Friday, April 4, 2025) - On Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 3:23 pm, Deputies with the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office were notified of a reported shooting that had occurred at 280 Sylvester Rd, China Grove, NC. A witness at the home called 911 and stated that her friend, 61-year-old George Dewey Turnmire of Kannapolis, had been shot by her neighbor, 61-year-old Michael Dean Brown of 230 Sylvester Rd.
Information given to investigators suggested a verbal argument that took place before the shooting led to Brown walking to the home where Turnmire was visiting, forcing his way in through the back door of the residence, and then shooting Turnmire twice in the back with a 20-gauge shotgun. The caller and four juveniles were in the residence during the incident but found safety by locking themselves in a room until it was safe. They were all unharmed.
By the time deputies arrived on scene, the victim had already died from his injuries. Brown was located on the porch of the home waiting for officers to arrive and was taken into custody. He was charged with murder and is being held without bond. His first appearance is scheduled for April 4th.
We express our sincere condolences to the Turnmire family during this tragic time in their lives.
Do you have information about a crime or wanted person? Contact Rowan County Sheriff’s Office at (704) 216-8700, or you can contact Rowan County Crime Stoppers at www.rowancrimestoppers.org or by calling 1-866-639-JAIL (5245). Caller identity is not required and your information will remain confidential. For more information about the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office visit us on Facebook or at www.rowancountync.gov.