Prior to the officers' arrival at the residence they learned that the victim and the suspect, William Preston Phillips, had left the area.
At about 11:15 am the officers received information that the vehicle was located in a open field area surrounded by woods approximately 200 yards south of New Elam Church, Located on Pea Ridge Rd.
Once Officers arrived on scene they were advised of the hostage situation and negotiators were contacted and responded. After negotiating with Phillips, the victim was released about 1:30 pm., and was air-care to UNC hospital for multiple stab wounds.
At 2:47 pm Phillips turned himself over to law enforcement and was placed into custody without incident. He had multiple injuries that are possibility self-inflicted; he was also transported to UNC Hospital Chapel Hill.
Phillips also stated that he had dynamite in the vehicle, which was later found to be untrue.
The investigation is ongoing.
