Authorities in North Carolina are two days into a manhunt for a suspect accused of stabbing a sheriff’s officer while being sought in connection with his grandmother’s murder.
Law enforcement officers responding to a Havelock, North Carolina, home over the weekend for a building fire and death investigation discovered the body of 72-year-old Patricia Lopedote, according to a statement released earlier this week by the Craven County Sheriff’s Office.
During the investigation, which began on Saturday, Oct. 25, authorities identified the suspect as Lopedote’s grandson, Dominic Liam Connelly, according to the statement.
Lopedote’s vehicle, which had been gone from the property, was found on Tuesday, Oct. 28, according to a sheriff’s office statement made that day.
Police initiated a manhunt for the 24-year-old suspect, who was last seen on Wednesday at a company in Vanceboro, North Carolina, roughly 36 miles from where Lopedote’s death was discovered.
Connelly allegedly assaulted a deputy sheriff with a knife inside a Bojangles bathroom before fleeing the scene, according to an updated statement from the Craven County Sheriff’s Office released on Thursday, Oct. 30.
A motive for Lopedote’s murder has not been revealed.
According to an online obituary, the “beloved” grandma, friend, and sibling is survived by a huge family of children and grandchildren.
Lopedote was known for her artistry and generosity, as evidenced by the handcrafted Christmas ornament that “she lovingly made each year for her family,” according to the obituary. “Her quick wit, warm humor, and love of puzzles and games added joy to every gathering. Patricia’s lively demeanor and sensitive care extended to her grand puppy, which she spoiled tenderly.”
Local schools were closed Friday, October 31, as the search for Connelly began its second day, according to News 12.
The Eagles Fall Fest, a local event, has also been cancelled, according to the outlet.
Connelly was charged with murder, first-degree arson, and larceny of a motor vehicle during the earliest stages of the inquiry, according to the sheriff’s office.
According to the office’s Thursday statement, Connelly now faces additional counts of attempted first-degree murder, felony assault on law enforcement causing serious injury, and resisting a public official.
Anyone who assists him in “his unlawful flight to avoid arrest and prosecution” will face criminal charges, according to police.
Crime Stoppers is offering a reward for information leading to Connelly’s arrest, according to the sheriff’s office.
Anyone with information on Connelly or the case as a whole is encouraged to contact law authorities via one of several options:
The Craven County Sheriff’s Office at (252) 636-6620
The Craven County Communications at (252) 633-2357.
Anonymous tips through the Craven County Crime Stoppers app at p3tips.com/986.
