RANDOLPH COUNTY, N.C. (WGHP) — A Randolph County woman is facing a murder charge following the death of a Seagrove firefighter, according to the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office.
Officers came to a residence on Ridge Road on Saturday after getting a report about an alleged self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Police identified the victim as local firefighter Mishael James “MJ” Auman. Emergency medical services took him to the hospital, where he later died.
Detectives and the District Attorney’s Office determined there was probable cause to arrest Heather Hicks Auman, MJ Auman’s wife, on a murder charge in connection with her husband’s death.
On Wednesday, Heather Auman was arrested at her home and taken to the Randolph County Detention Center, where she was served the warrant for first-degree murder.
She was denied bond and will have a first appearance in the Randolph County District Court on Friday.
The investigation is active and ongoing.
Randolph County Fire Marshal Erik Beard released the following statement on behalf of Seagrove Rural Volunteer Fire Department, Inc.:
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Seagrove Firefighter Misael James (MJ) Auman on Saturday, June 25, 2022. MJ served the citizens of Randolph County and the Seagrove community for over 21 years. This is a devastating blow to the fire service of our county as Firefighter Auman also served at the Ramseur, Ulah and Tabernacle Fire Departments over the past 21 years.”
“MJ’s infectious smile, outgoing personality and willingness to serve others will forever be missed throughout our county’s fire service. Our thoughts and prayers are with the MJ’s family and friends during this time of loss.”