CONOVER, N.C. — The Conover community is seeking answers after a Saturday afternoon shooting left 21-year-old Alex Markus Benge critically injured, with authorities now identifying him as the victim in the ongoing investigation.
Emergency crews were called to the scene around 2:15 p.m. Saturday following reports of a shooting. Responders found Alex suffering from serious injuries, and he was airlifted to Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center, where he was listed in critical but stable condition.
Authorities have charged Mark Jefferson Benge, 55, of Conover, in connection with the shooting. He faces a charge of felony assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury. Court documents allege that he assaulted Alex with a KelTec semi-automatic 9mm pistol.
Court records identify the case as a domestic-related incident. A Catawba County magistrate denied bond, citing the severity of the charge and the alleged intent involved.
Mark Benge remains in custody at the Catawba County Detention Center, with his first court appearance scheduled for Monday afternoon in Newton.
Authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting as family, friends, and members of the community await further updates.
Officials remind the public that criminal charges are allegations and that the accused is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
The Conover community continues to keep Alex Markus Benge and his loved ones in their thoughts as the investigation moves forward.
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