On the evening of Tuesday, November 4, 2025, deputies responded to a residence on Happy Trails Lane in the Boomer community after a disturbance involving someone reportedly trying to break into a home. While officers were en route, communications advised that a shooting had occurred. Deputies found 47-year-old David Arthur Phillips suffering from gunshot wounds; he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Wilkes County Sheriff’s Office opened an investigation and asked the State Bureau of Investigation to assist. No information about a suspect or any arrests has been released. Phillips, born September 30, 1978, is described as a husband, father, and grandfather; his family and community are mourning his sudden death.

If anyone witnessed the disturbance on Happy Trails Lane that evening or has information about the shooting, please contact the Wilkes County Sheriff’s Office.