Serving Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and other towns of the North Carolina High Country | Founded 05-05-05

January 25, 2007 issue

Local Man Charged in Stabbing Death of His Brother Released on Bail

Story by Sam Calhoun

Dustin Clay Howell, 22, is currently waiting a February 1 District Court hearing after he turned himself in to authorities on Thursday, January 18. Howell has been charged with first-degree murder in the stabbing death of his brother, 29-year-old Gale Dean Howell III, known as “Trey” to friends and family.

Trey Howell died Tuesday, January 16, at the Watauga Medical Center from multiple stab wounds, according to authorities.

Dustin Howell is currently out of jail after posting a $50,000 secured and a $50,000 unsecured bond to attend his brother’s funeral.

Watauga County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the stabbing that occurred on Tuesday, January 16, at 360 Hill Top Drive in Boone. The two brothers were transported to Watauga Medical Center for treatment shortly before midnight and Trey Howell was later pronounced deceased. Dustin Howell was released from Watauga Medical Center on Wednesday morning after being treated for cuts to his mouth and chin area. 

A report on the incident from the sheriff’s office indicated that drugs or alcohol may have been a factor in the assault.