A Hoke County teenager was shot and killed by a Lee County deputy after allegedly killing his grandmother, according to the State Bureau of Investigation.
On Thursday morning, authorities were called to Pearce Place in Raeford for a wellness check when they found the body of Connie Linen.
Paperwork was filed for the 13-year-old suspect, identified as J.A. by the Hoke County Sheriff’s Office, to be charged with first-degree murder. J.A. was found to be Linen’s grandson. Authorities discovered J.A. in Lee County.
Lee County deputies said the suspect was found behind an abandoned mobile home near Cameron and inside a vehicle belonging to Linen. The suspect ran away, grabbed a piece of lumber from a yard and charged at a deputy, according to the Lee County Sheriff. The deputy shot J.A., who was declared dead at the scene. It’s unknown when exactly the confrontation occurred.
Linen was 68. The SBI is investigating the circumstances behind the suspect’s apprehension.
“This has been a tragic and emotional situation for everyone
involved,” said Hoke Sheriff Roderick Virgil said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Ms. Linen, as well
as the family of the juvenile. We ask that our community come together
with compassion and
understanding as we all process this difficult event.”
It’s the second murder in the area this week. On Monday, two foster parents were found dead in a stabbing at their Raeford home.
The SBI, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Moore County Sheriff’s Office, and Harnett County Sheriff’s Office all responded.
This is a developing story.