North Carolina Man Arrested After He Allegedly Guns Down Elderly Relatives and Steals Their Car.

Just a few days ago a North Carolina man was said to have committed a heinous crime against people he should have loved. Police reports say that O]on November 7th, 2024 at approximately 10:26pm Northampton Co. Sheriff’s Office responded to a shooting at a residence outside of Gaston. When they arrived and began their initial investigation, they found the bodies of an elderly couple deceased in the front yard of their residence within the driveway area. Both victims suffered gunshot wounds to the head from a shotgun at point blank range. Upon further investigation, it was determined that the suspect had stolen the couple's vehicle after shooting them to flee the scene.

The next day, at approximately 2:20am, law enforcement officers were able to locate the victim’s stolen truck in a local hotel parking lot in Roanoke Rapids.

Two hours later, law enforcement officers with Northampton Co. Sheriff’s Office, Halifax Co. Sheriff’s Office, and Roanoke Rapids Police Dept. were able to safely apprehend and arrest the suspect. According to a press release by the police department, the suspect has been identified as 35-year-old Ryvaries Butcher of Gaston. Detective Sgt. W. Killian and Detective Sgt. M. Deloatch obtained warrants on Ryvaries Butcher. He was initially charged with one count of felony larceny of a motor vehicle and in-addition charged with two counts of first-degree murder. The motive behind this homicide shooting is still unclear at this time and is being further investigated. NC S.B.I. assisted with the crime scene investigation. It was discovered from further investigation that Ryvaries Butcher was a close neighbor and a relative of the victims. The couple has been identified as Michael Powell, 72, and his wife, Carolyn Powell, 70.

Butcher is being held with no bond on the first-degree murder charges and he received a $35,000 secured bond for the motor vehicle larceny charge. Next court date scheduled for 1November 19, 2024. The investigation is still ongoing.

Sheriff Jack Smith stated he would "like to commend the immediate response, investigation, and efforts of our deputies and detectives. Sheriff J. Smith would like to thank NC S.B.I. for their assistance with the crime scene investigation. He would like to also thank Halifax Co. Sheriff's Office and Roanoke Rapids Police Dept. for their assistance and help in assuring the apprehension of this dangerous subject. My thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt sincerity goes out to the family of the victims during this tragic time."

Although this was a completely senseless act, we're thankful that the suspect was arrested and that the family will receive justice.