Manhunt Underway for Suspected Murderer After Deputy Stabbing in Vanceboro

VANCEBORO, N.C. (WITN) – A manhunt is underway for 24-year-old Dominic Liam Connelly, who is wanted for murder and recently stabbed a Craven County deputy. The incident occurred at a Bojangles fast-food restaurant in Vanceboro on Wednesday night.

Sheriff Chip Hughes confirmed during an afternoon briefing that Connelly is also connected to the death of his grandmother, 72-year-old Patricia Lopedote, whose body was discovered in her burned home earlier this week. The authorities report that the stabbing occurred around 8:45 p.m. in the restaurant bathroom during a confrontation between Connelly and the deputy.

“We’re hot on his heels. We’re keeping him running,” Sheriff Hughes stated. “It’s imperative to understand that this is a dangerous person.” Law enforcement agencies including the State Bureau of Investigation have deployed drones, helicopters, and K9 units in search of Connelly.

Schools in Vanceboro were closed Thursday as a precautionary measure. In contrast, Beaufort County Schools coordinated with deputies to enhance security for schools that remained open. Hughes recommended that schools stay closed until Connelly is apprehended.

Connelly now faces multiple charges, including murder, first-degree arson, larceny of a motor vehicle, attempted first-degree murder, felony assault on a law enforcement officer, and resisting a public officer. He is described as a white male, standing 5 feet 5 inches tall, weighing approximately 135 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes.

The sheriff’s office received reports on Thursday about deputies patrolling the area, focusing on the Bailey Lane Apartments, where Connelly was last seen wearing dark clothing after fleeing the Bojangles.

Authorities urge anyone with information about Connelly’s whereabouts to contact the Craven County Sheriff’s Office at (252) 636-6620 or Craven County Communications at (252) 633-2357. Crime Stoppers is offering a reward for information leading to his arrest.