Authorities have launched an intensified manhunt for Dominic Liam Connelly, a 24-year-old man from North Carolina, after he was accused of murdering his grandmother, burning her home to the ground, and stabbing a deputy. Connelly, who is considered armed and dangerous, is wanted on multiple charges including murder, arson, motor vehicle theft, attempted murder, and felony assault.
His grandmother, Patricia Jean Timek Lopedote, 72, was found dead in the ashes of her home in Craven County, prompting an investigation into the circumstances of her death. Connelly, who is described as 5-feet, 8-inches tall with wavy blonde hair and blue eyes, was last seen in Vanceboro, North Carolina. Law enforcement sources have confirmed that Connelly has ties to New York and was last spotted wearing a black long-sleeved shirt and camo pants, carrying a bag. A trail camera captured him again on Nov. 4, this time in tan clothing with a backpack, blanket, and one-gallon jug, according to sheriff’s office.
Due to the ongoing manhunt, schools in the area have been holding remote classes, and Halloween events have been rescheduled. Authorities have urged residents to check their trail cameras and home security systems for any sightings of Connelly. Anyone with information can call the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 or 911 immediately.
Court records show Connelly had prior run-ins with the law in 2017 on charges including contributing to the delinquency of a minor and violating probation. He shared his grandmother’s address as recently as 2021, court records show. Lopedote, who lived in Havelock, is remembered as a loving caretaker, generous cook, and homemade gift-giver in an online obituary.
Law enforcement officials have also raised concerns about the possibility of Connelly having assistance from others in the area. Sheriff Chip Hughes stated that there may be individuals helping him, whether through money, food, water, or clothing, noting that he has family in the region. The sheriff emphasized the importance of community vigilance, urging anyone with information to come forward promptly.
As the situation continues to unfold, the broader community remains on high alert, with law enforcement working tirelessly to locate Connelly before he can pose further threats.