On October 29, 2025, the Bojangles fast-food location in Vanceboro, North Carolina, became the scene of a knife attack when fugitive suspect Dominic Liam Connelly, 24, allegedly stabbed a deputy inside the restaurant’s restroom before fleeing on foot.
The search for Connelly began days earlier with the death of his grandmother, found inside her burning home, a fire which authorities allege Connelly started.
The night of the fire
According to the Craven County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), on October 25, 2025, officers responded to reports of a structure fire and death investigation after firefighters found Patricia Lopedote, 72, deceased inside her residence. Reports say her autopsy is complete, but Lopedote’s exact cause of death, ruled a homicide, has not been publicly disclosed.
The CCSO’s Criminal Investigation Bureau identified her grandson, Connelly, as the suspect. The victim’s vehicle was reported missing from the scene, and authorities issued a warrant for his arrest. Investigators later found Lopedote’s vehicle unoccupied about 12 miles away from the scene of the crime, in Havelock, North Carolina.
Bojangles stabbing leads to further charges
Following the Bojangles incident, the CCSO announced that Connelly is wanted on an open count of murder, first-degree arson, and larceny of a motor vehicle. He’s also now been charged with attempted first-degree murder, felony assault on law enforcement causing serious injury, and resisting a public officer.
Amid the ongoing search, multiple law enforcement agencies have converged on the area, deploying K-9 units and drones in search of Connelly, who was last seen wearing all dark clothing and running toward an apartment complex near the restaurant. Schools in the region were closed or moved to remote learning as a precaution.
So far, no motive has been publicly disclosed for the grandmother’s killing or the fire. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and that no further details have been released. Local press coverage describes Lopedote as a beloved grandmother whose life was cut short in tragic circumstances.
According to Lopedote’s obituary, “she will be remembered for her creativity and generous spirit, especially her beautiful handmade crafts and the Christmas ornaments she lovingly made each year for her family. Her quick wit, warm humor, and love for puzzles and games brought joy to every gathering. Patricia’s playful nature and tender care extended even to her grand dog, whom she spoiled dearly.”
The CCSO warns that anyone assisting Connelly in his unlawful flight to avoid arrest and prosecution will face criminal charges. Craven County Crime Stoppers has offered a reward for information leading to his arrest.
Law enforcement says call 911 if Connelly is spotted. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Craven County Sheriff’s Office at (252) 636-6620 or Craven County Communications at (252) 633-2357. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Crime Stoppers app.
