James Jimmy Leroy Conley, 53, of Elkin, North Carolina, was found dead outside his home on L&L Road on the morning of June 13, 2021. The initial investigation reported an apparent gunshot wound as the cause of death. Conley was born July 24, 1967, and was remembered for his love of dirt track racing and spending time outdoors and on the river.

A 22-year-old man from Mount Airy, Tyler Blake Daughenbaugh, was arrested on an Elkin street after being located riding a lawn mower and charged with Conley’s murder; authorities held him in the Wilkes County Jail without bond. Law enforcement agencies involved included the Wilkes County Sheriff’s Department, the SBI, Surry County Sheriff’s Department, Mount Airy Police Department, and the Carroll County, Va. Sheriff’s Department. The motive has not been disclosed.

Daughenbaugh pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in connection with the shooting. Are there details about Conley’s last day or anyone who saw him near L&L Road on June 13, 2021?