BURKE COUNTY — A Burke County man has been arrested in connection with the murders of two men whose bodies were discovered inside a burned home in the Antioch community late last month.
On Monday, September 15, the Burke County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of 51-year-old Michael James Moretz of Pax Hill Road in Morganton. Moretz is charged with two counts of felony murder in the deaths of 63-year-old Michael Curtis Hallyburton and 76-year-old Joseph Kincaid Byrd Jr., both of Morganton.
The case stems from a fire reported on August 31 at a residence on Swink Street in the Antioch section of the county. When first responders arrived, they located the two men inside the burned structure. In a development confirmed last week, investigators revealed that both victims had also suffered gunshot wounds.
Funeral services for the men were held earlier this month, with arrangements handled by Sossoman Funeral Home for Byrd and Heritage Funeral Services for Hallyburton.
Authorities say the investigation has required a multi-agency effort due to the complexity of the case. In addition to the Burke County Sheriff’s Office, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Virginia State Police, and the Hickory Police Department have all assisted.
Sheriff Steve Whisenant said investigators have worked around the clock since the fire. “This has been an extensive investigation involving many partners, and today’s arrest is a major step forward,” he noted.
Moretz was booked into the Burke County Jail without bond. His first court appearance is scheduled for Thursday, September 18, in Morganton District Court.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the investigation is still active and urged anyone with additional information to contact their office at 828-764-9558 or provide an anonymous tip through Burke County Crimestoppers. Tips that lead to an arrest may qualify for a cash reward of up to $2,000.
