HAVELOCK, N.C. — Authorities are actively searching for Dominic Liam Connelly, 24, in connection with the brutal murder of his grandmother, 72-year-old Patricia Lopedote, following a tragic incident in Havelock, North Carolina.
On October 25, 2025, the Craven County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call at 2010 N.C. 101 Highway regarding a structure fire and a possible death inside the residence. Fire Department personnel discovered Patricia Lopedote deceased inside her home. The shocking circumstances prompted a full-scale investigation by the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Bureau.
Through the investigation, authorities identified Dominic Liam Connelly, the victim’s grandson, as the primary suspect in the case. Following the discovery, Lopedote’s vehicle was reported missing from the scene, prompting law enforcement to issue a warrant for larceny of a motor vehicle. A press release was subsequently released to the public, including photographs of Connelly and the missing vehicle, to solicit tips and assistance in locating him.
On October 28, 2025, Lopedote’s vehicle was recovered in a parking lot on Pine Tree Drive, near the baseball fields in New Bern, N.C., unoccupied. An autopsy was conducted, and the Craven County District Attorney’s Office was consulted regarding potential charges.
Connelly is currently wanted for open counts of murder, first-degree arson, and larceny of a motor vehicle. Law enforcement officials warn that anyone assisting Connelly in evading arrest or prosecution could face serious criminal charges.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about Connelly’s whereabouts to immediately 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 Craven County Crime Stoppers app at p3tips.com/986. Crime Stoppers is offering a reward for information leading directly to Connelly’s arrest.
This ongoing investigation is being treated with the utmost urgency, as law enforcement works to bring justice for Patricia Lopedote and ensure public safety. Anyone with information is urged to come forward immediately to assist authorities in apprehending the suspect.
