Alexander County School Board member dies in shooting
Robert Arguelles
(Updated at 10:13 a.m., June 18, 2026, to reflect police press release information)
A member of the Alexander County Board of Education has been killed in a shooting, according to police reports.
The tragedy occurred on the afternoon of Wednesday, June 17, 2026, in Newton, when 59 year old Robert Arguelles, of Taylorsville, was shot at at the Old Hickory Tannery, according to Newton Police Deputy Chief Mark Beal. Arguelles’ co-worker, Willard Gary Black, age 85, of Hickory, president of the leather furniture company, had an altercation and Black shot Arguelles, according to police. Attempts to resuscitate Arguelles were unsuccessful.
At approximately 3:18 p.m. on Wednesday June 17, 2026, the Newton Police Department received a call in reference to a shooting that occurred at the Old Hickory Tannery, 970 Locust Street Newton, NC 28658.
When officers arrived on scene, they located a man identified as Robert Roger Arguelles, 59, of Taylorsville, NC, in an office area, who had sustained a gunshot wound to the chest and back. Life-saving efforts were started but were unsuccessful and he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The preliminary investigation indicates the male victim and a co-worker, identified as Willard Gary Black, 85, of Hickory, NC, had an altercation and Willard Black shot the victim in the chest and back. Willard Black was detained at the scene and the weapon used was recovered, said Deputy Chief Beal.
Willard Gary Black has been charged with Second Degree Murder and will have a first appearance in Catawba County District Court in Newton on Thursday, June 18, 2026.
The investigation of this incident is ongoing and active. Anyone who witnessed the incident or who may be able to provide any additional information is asked to contact Investigator C. Davis with the Newton Police Department at (828) 465-7430 or [email protected].
Agencies/organizations involved include the Newton Police Department, Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, Newton Fire Department, Catawba County Emergency Medical Services, and Catawba County 911.
Willard Gary Black
School system officials mourn member’s passing
Alexander County Schools Superintendent Dr. Bill Griffin issued this statement Wednesday evening.
“It is with heavy hearts that we mourn alongside the Alexander County Schools’ family, friends, and the entire community that Rob Arguelles so devotedly represented.”
“He was an amazing father, husband, and board member who has faithfully supported our school system for almost four years.”
“In honor of his memory, our district fully supports and respects the family’s privacy as they navigate this profound loss.”
ACS School Board Chair Josh Dagenhart shared his personal reflection on the loss.
“Rob was a brilliant soul, a great man, and a dear friend that passed away far too soon. I am heartbroken. I love you Rob. I will see you again.”
Uncle Rob was truly a man of legends. He was the kind of man people admired, respected, and never forgot. A devoted husband, a loving father, and a loyal friend, he touched countless lives through his strength, kindness, wisdom, and unwavering character.
I was blessed to know him and to look up to him. He set an example of what it means to live with purpose, love deeply, and care for others. The impact he had on those around him will continue to be felt for generations.
Uncle Rob, you were dearly loved and will be deeply missed. While it is hard to imagine a world without you in it, I find comfort in knowing that your legacy lives on through the family and friends whose lives you helped shape.
I will miss you more than words can express. Rest peacefully. You will never be forgotten.