Smartwatch Emergency Call Leads to Discovery of Couple’s Deaths in North Carolina
A husband and wife were found dead from gunshot wounds in their New Hanover County, North Carolina home after an automated emergency call was placed to 911 from a smartwatch.
Portland, OR, July 30, 2026 —
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, N.C. – A New Hanover County couple was discovered deceased from apparent gunshot wounds following an automated emergency alert triggered by a smartwatch. The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call placed to 911 by the device.
The incident occurred at the couple’s residence. While the exact sequence of events leading to the discovery is still under investigation, the initial 911 call was reportedly initiated automatically by a smartwatch, indicating a potential fall or other emergency event detected by the wearable technology. This automated alert prompted law enforcement to dispatch deputies to the home.
Upon arrival, deputies found both a husband and wife deceased within the residence. The cause of death for both individuals has been identified as gunshot wounds. The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office has stated that the investigation into the circumstances surrounding their deaths is ongoing.
No further details regarding the individuals involved, the specific model of the smartwatch, or the timeline of events have been released by authorities at this time. The Sheriff’s Office has not provided information on whether a suspect is being sought or if the incident is being investigated as a homicide, suicide, or other cause. The investigation is active and ongoing.
Story summarized from the original created by WECT News staff, Kaitlyn Aguiles, Jordan Gartner on www.kptv.com, see more information here.
