Rowan County agencies assist in search for Stanly County teen presumed dead
Published 12:00 am Tuesday, May 14, 2024
Multiple law enforcement and emergency services agencies have worked together searching areas in Stanly, Cabarrus and Rowan counties in search of the remains of 17-year-old Baylee Carver.
Around 4:30 a.m. Friday, Albemarle Police officers responded to the 2900 block of Floral Drive after receiving a 911 call from a resident stating they needed police assistance.
After an investigation by APD and the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation, it was determined that Carver is presumed to be deceased.
On Monday, Albemarle Police used resources from Albemarle, Badin, Charlotte, East Side and Ridgecrest fire departments, Cabarrus County Emergency Services, Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office, National Center for Exploited/Missing Children (NCMEC), North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI), North Carolina State Highway Patrol (Aviation Unit), South Carolina Search and Rescue, Stanly County Rescue and Stanly County Emergency Services & Communications, an Albemarle spokesperson said.
By mid-afternoon Monday, searchers had walked more than 160 miles. Searchers continue to use specially trained K-9s, aerial support and GPS mapping technologies to ensure all areas are covered.
Members of the public in Gold Hill, Cold Water, Mt. Pleasant, Albemarle, Richfield and Misenheimer may offer assistance by checking their surveillance cameras for footage between 3 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. Friday for any activity involving a 1999 two-door red Honda Civic with black wheels, North Carolina tag number RHC 1776.
A report can be made by calling the Albemarle Police tip line at 704-984-9511.
On Sunday, law enforcement searched by foot, ATV and vehicle, covering about 250 miles of roadway.
“Our hearts remain heavy for the family and friends of Baylee Carver. Law enforcement will follow every lead to bring closure to Baylee’s loved ones,” Albemarle Public Information Officer David Fath said.
Joshua Biles, 20, has been arrested and charged with felony obstruction and concealment of death.
Biles is in custody at the Stanly County Jail.
Stanly County Schools Administrative and Board Assistant Hope Miller-Drye said Carver was a former student and that SCS is “committed to honoring her memory and supporting our school community during this difficult time.”
“We extend our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones,” Miller-Drye said. “SCS staff are providing emotional support and counseling services to students, and staff who may be grieving or in need of assistance.”