Overdose Death Investigation Leads to Two Arrests

Rutherford County -- August 8, 2024: Press Release Rutherford County Sheriff's Office: On January 7, 2023,

the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office responded to an unresponsive subject call in the area of Sandy Mush. The victim, Jason Bridges, was found unresponsive and EMS responded to the scene. Despite lifesaving measures, Bridges was pronounced dead at Rutherford Regional Medical Center. Investigators were assigned the case and an investigation ensued.

Through a lengthy investigation, it was determined that Bridges’ death was the result of an overdose. As a result of the investigation, two suspects were developed.

On July 29, 2024 the case was presented before a Grand Jury in Rutherford County. As a result, indictments were returned on Tray Jones (21 year-old male of Ellenboro) and Richie Womick (63-year-old male of Forest City).

Tray Jones was charged with 2nd Degree Murder and Death by Distribution. Jones received a $350,000 secured bond which was set by a judicial official on August 8, 2024 and he is currently incarcerated in the Rutherford County Detention Facility.

Richie Womick was also charged with 2nd Degree Murder and Death by Distribution. Womick received a $350,000 secured bond which was set by a judicial official on August 8, 2024 and he is currently incarcerated in the Rutherford County Detention Facility.