
(Press release from Yancey Sheriff’s Office)
The Yancey County Sheriff’s Office has issued a murder warrant for the arrest of Henry Paul Deyton in connection with the death of Emma Gibbs Deyton. On the evening of November 2, 2025, deputies responded to Twilight Way in the South Toe community. Upon arrival, Emma Gibbs Deyton was found deceased at the scene.
Following the incident, Henry Paul Deyton was involved in a single-vehicle crash just a few miles from the location and was airlifted to Johnson City Medical Center for treatment. Deyton is currently in the custody of the Johnson City Police Department while receiving medical care.
This case remains under active investigation by the Yancey County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI).
Sheriff Shane Hilliard stated, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones affected by this tragic event. We appreciate the cooperation of our community and the assistance of our partner agencies as this investigation continues.”