Two people have been arrested in relation to the double shooting incident that occurred on March 30, 2026 on Bay Hill Place in rural Mountain Home. This incident resulted in two people exchanging gunfire and both being shot. Both were hospitalized for treatment of injuries. The incident was said to have occurred due to a property boundary dispute or trespassing issue. The two people who exchanged gunfire were 50 year old BRETT COX and 22 year old JOHN WAY, who was accompanied by his brother, 20 year old DAVID WAY.
Following the incident, the Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation, gathered evidence, conducted interviews, and presented findings to a Judge for a probable cause determination to file charges. The probable cause affidavits were signed on April 20th by a Circuit Judge and were then submitted to the Prosecuting Attorney for consideration of filing of formal charges. Warrants of arrests were issued on May 1st.
The investigation found that BRETT COX approached the other two men when he observed them on his property. He was carrying a shotgun with him. There was a canoe on his property, which belonged to him, that JOHN WAY and DAVID WAY were trying to remove by loading it into a truck. A verbal argument ensured. It was alleged that BRETT COX fired a warning shot. JOHN WAY then left on foot through the woods to an adjoining residence and returned shortly thereafter with a rifle. JOHN WAY then began firing at BRETT COX, who returned fire. Both were struck and injured.
During the collection and processing of evidence phase, approximately 2 grams of suspected methamphetamine was found in the clothing of JOHN WAY.
JOHN WAY was booked into the Detention Center today on charges of:
Attempted Capital Murder – Felony
Aggravated Robbery – Felony
Possession of Controlled Substance with Purpose of Delivery – Felony
Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms – Felony
Possession of Firearms by Certain Persons – Felony
Criminal Trespass – Misdemeanor
JOHN WAY has a bond of $100,000. He is scheduled to appear before the Circuit Court to answer on May 11th.
DAVID WAY was booked into the Detention Center today on charges of:
Attempted Capital Murder – Felony
Aggravated Robbery – Felony
Criminal Trespass – Misdemeanor
DAVID WAY has a bond of $25,000. He is scheduled to appear before the Circuit Court to answer on May 11th.
