A desperate hunt is underway for Dominic Liam Connelly, a 24-year-old man accused of a horrific crime spree that began with the murder of his 72-year-old grandmother. The ashes of Patricia Jean Timek Lopedote’s home in Craven County, North Carolina, are all that remain, a chilling testament to the violence that unfolded.
The manhunt escalated dramatically after Connelly allegedly stabbed a Craven County deputy on October 29th. Though the deputy survived, Connelly vanished, leaving authorities with a dangerous fugitive on the loose and a community gripped by fear.
He was last sighted in Vanceboro, North Carolina, on October 31st, captured by a trail camera near Highway 17. The image showed him carrying a bag, clad in a black long-sleeved shirt and camouflage pants – a fleeting glimpse of a man actively evading capture.
The trail turned cold despite an extensive search, prompting a plea to residents to review their own security footage. Then, a breakthrough: a Ring camera captured Connelly again on November 4th, this time sporting tan clothing and carrying a backpack, a blanket, and a gallon jug, suggesting a determined effort to remain hidden.
Investigators believe Connelly is receiving assistance, potentially from family members in the area, with resources like money, food, and clothing. This suspicion adds another layer of complexity to the already challenging search.
The impact on the community has been significant. Schools have shifted to remote learning, and Halloween festivities were postponed, a stark illustration of the fear and disruption caused by Connelly’s actions.
Connelly is described as 5’8” and approximately 180 pounds, with wavy blonde hair and piercing blue eyes. Authorities warn that he should be considered armed and dangerous, urging anyone with information to contact 911 immediately.
Court records reveal a history of legal trouble for Connelly, dating back to 2017, including charges related to contributing to the delinquency of a minor and probation violations. He had listed his grandmother’s address as his own as recently as 2021.
Those who knew Patricia Lopedote remember her as a kind and generous woman, a loving caretaker known for her cooking and thoughtful, handmade gifts. Her senseless death has left a void in the hearts of those who cherished her.
The U.S. Marshals are now actively involved in the search, seeking any information that could lead to Connelly’s capture and bring a measure of peace to a community shaken by tragedy.
