On Oct. 6, 2024, at approximately 8:30 p.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call reporting a shooting at the residence of Will DeLong on Jackson Creek Ranch Road in Humboldt County, Nevada.
During the investigation that followed, it was determined the property owner, Will DeLong, had been shot in the abdomen by the suspect, identified as Ravyn Fairchild, who had stolen a handgun from a vehicle on the DeLong property and then fired on Will when he was discovered burglarizing the vehicles.
Will then returned fire from his handgun in self-defense, striking and killing the suspect, who died on scene. Will DeLong succumbed to his injuries from the gunshot wound while receiving treatment at Renown Medical Center in Reno and he passed away on Nov. 13, 2024.
A comprehensive investigation conducted by the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, including witness interviews, multiple corroborating statements, as well as scene and forensic analysis, revealed that Ravyn Fairchild was committing multiple felonies at the time of his death. Toxicology results obtained from the Washoe County Medical Examiner’s Office autopsy report indicated Fairchild was under the influence of amphetamines and methamphetamines at the time of his death.
The investigation, conducted by the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office and in agreement with the Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office, concluded that Will DeLong was justified in using force to defend his life and the life of other people on the property.
Had Ravyn Fairchild survived, he would have been charged with three counts of NRS. 206.060.2a Burglary of a Motor Vehicle, NRS. 205.060.1D Burglary of a Structure, NRS. 205.228 Grand Larceny of a Motor Vehicle, Four counts of NRS. 205.226.2 Grand Larceny of a Firearm, NRS. 453.336 Possession of a Schedule I or II Controlled Substance less than 14 grams, two counts of NRS. 200.471.2b Assault, with Use of a Deadly Weapon – Aggravated Assault, and NRS. 200.010: Murder.
Sheriff Cardenas and the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office extend their deepest condolences to the family and friends of Will DeLong, who tragically lost his life during this incident.
For any additional questions or information, please contact Captain Sean Wilkin at 775- 623-6419 or sean.wilkin@humboldtcountynv.gov
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