Love Turns Lethal: Maggie Valley Man Indicted for Killing Partner
Maggie Valley, NC — A quiet mountain town has been rocked by tragedy after a man was indicted for the murder of his domestic partner, following what authorities are calling a deadly case of domestic violence.
The Haywood County Grand Jury returned an indictment this week against 45-year-old Daniel Brooks of Maggie Valley. He is accused of fatally assaulting his longtime partner, 39-year-old Emily Harris, during a heated argument at their home on Smoky Ridge Road earlier this month.
According to the Haywood County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the residence after receiving a 911 call from a concerned neighbor who overheard screams coming from the home. Upon arrival, officers found Harris unresponsive with visible signs of trauma. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Brooks was taken into custody at the scene without incident.
Investigators say the couple had a documented history of domestic disturbances, and neighbors confirmed they had heard frequent arguments coming from the home over the past year.
“This is a heartbreaking case of intimate partner violence that escalated to a tragic conclusion,” said District Attorney Ashley Welch. “Our thoughts are with the victim’s family as we work to hold the defendant accountable.”
Brooks has been charged with second-degree murder and is currently being held without bond at the Haywood County Detention Center.
If convicted, he could face up to life in prison.
The case has prompted renewed attention on the issue of domestic violence in rural communities, where victims often face limited access to resources and support. Local officials are urging anyone experiencing abuse to seek help and reminding residents that confidential support is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
Brooks is scheduled to appear in court for arraignment next week. The investigation remains ongoing.
