Connie Linen Obituary, Death; – A 13-year-old boy was shot and killed by a deputy after he allegedly murdered his grandmother in eastern North Carolina this past week.
The murder was first reported at a residence on Pearce Place in Hoke County during the morning of Thursday, Oct. 30.
Upon arrival at the home, Hoke County deputies discovered 68-year-old Connie Linen deceased, but did not disclose the cause of her death. As they commenced their investigation, authorities identified Linen’s grandson — publicly referred to as “J.A.” — as the suspect.
Officials aimed to charge the teenager with first-degree murder and initiated a search for him.
Authorities from several adjacent sheriff’s offices, along with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, participated in the search for J.A. They located him in his grandmother’s vehicle behind an abandoned mobile home in the Cameron area of Lee County, as reported by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.
As authorities approached the car, the 13-year-old reportedly exited and fled across the street into the woods. While fleeing, officials stated that J.A. picked up a 2×4 board and charged at a Lee County deputy. The deputy subsequently shot J.A. and began administering life-saving measures. Despite the deputies’ efforts, J.A. succumbed to his injuries.
“This has been a tragic and emotional situation for everyone involved,” stated Hoke County Sheriff Roderick Virgil. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Ms. Linen, as well as the family of the juvenile. We urge our community to unite with compassion and understanding as we all navigate this challenging event.”
The State Bureau of Investigation is currently reviewing the case, including the deputy’s use of lethal force.
