Police Launch Manhunt for Murder Suspect Who Attacked Deputy with Knife
A manhunt is currently in progress in Craven County, North Carolina, for a suspect wanted in connection with a recent murder. Authorities are actively searching for 24-year-old Dominic Liam Connelly, who has been accused of attacking a deputy in a Bojangles restroom while attempting to evade capture.
Background of the Case
Connelly is linked to the murder of his grandmother, Patricia Lopedote. Her body was discovered in her Havelock home on October 25, 2023, following a suspicious fire. Prior to the assault on the deputy, officials had obtained a warrant for Connelly’s arrest.
Incident Details
- Date of Incident: October 29, 2023
- Location: Bojangles Restaurant, Vanceboro, NC
- Events:
- Connelly assaulted a deputy with a knife.
- He fled the scene immediately after the attack.
The violent nature of the assault triggered a Blue Alert, an alert issued when a law enforcement officer is seriously injured due to a violent act. Craven County Sheriff Chip Hughes expressed confidence that Connelly would be apprehended shortly, with search teams employing drones and K-9 units in the hunt.
Charges Against Connelly
Connelly faces multiple serious charges, including:
- Murder
- First-degree arson
- Larceny of a motor vehicle
- Attempted first-degree murder (additional warrant)
- Felony assault on a law enforcement officer causing serious injury (additional warrant)
- Resisting a public officer (additional warrant)
Physical Description of the Suspect
Dominic Liam Connelly is described as:
- Race: White
- Hair: Blonde
- Eyes: Blue
- Weight: Approximately 135 pounds
- Height: About 5 feet 5 inches
- Clothing: Last seen wearing all dark clothing
Following the attack, Connelly was spotted fleeing toward the Bailey Lane Apartments located behind the restaurant, and law enforcement encourages anyone who locates him not to approach but to call 911 immediately.
Public Assistance Requested
The Craven County Sheriff’s Office is actively seeking public assistance in locating Connelly. They have urged anyone with information regarding his whereabouts or details about the case to contact:
- Craven County Sheriff’s Office: 252-636-6620
- Craven County Communications: 252-633-2357
Anonymous tips can be submitted via the Craven County Crime Stoppers app at p3tips.com/986. A reward is being offered for information that leads to Connelly’s arrest. Authorities have also warned that anyone aiding him in avoiding capture will face legal consequences.
