Investigation Launched After Distillery Explosion
The North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Division (ALE) has initiated an investigation following a significant explosion and fire linked to an illegal distillery in Wilkes County on October 26, 2026. This incident prompted alerts from the Wilkes County Sheriff’s Office, the Wilkes County Fire Marshal’s Office, and the Office of the State Fire Marshal regarding a structure fire associated with an unlicensed liquor production operation.
Seizure of Distillery Equipment and Spirits
Upon their arrival at the location, ALE agents uncovered a fully operational 200-gallon illegal distillery. During their inquiry, they confiscated approximately 1,800 gallons of mash along with 161 gallons of illicitly produced liquor, commonly referred to as moonshine.
Charges Filed Against Suspect
As a result of the investigation, authorities arrested 69-year-old Billy Ray Anderson from North Wilkesboro. He faces multiple charges, including:
- Manufacturing a non-taxpaid alcoholic beverage
- Possession for sale of a non-taxpaid alcoholic beverage
- Possession of a non-taxpaid alcoholic beverage
- Possession of distillation equipment
- Possession of ingredients intended for distillation
- Permitting property to be used for the production of non-taxpaid alcoholic beverages
Role of ALE in Ensuring Public Safety
ALE Special Agents are tasked with overseeing enforcement operations that address illegal distillery activities and the distribution of non-taxpaid alcoholic beverages throughout North Carolina. Their goal is to safeguard public health and safety while curbing dangerous manufacturing practices.
Source: N.C. Department of Public Safety
