N.C. Man Accused of Killing 'Beloved' Grandma, Stabbing Sheriff's Deputy — and He's Still On The Run

NEED TO KNOW

Patricia Lopedote was found deceased in her home over the weekend following a report of a structure fire
Her grandson, Dominic Liam Connelly, has been identified as a suspect in connection with her killing
Connelly is now accused of attacking a sheriff’s deputy at a restaurant during the initial search for him

Authorities in North Carolina are two days into a manhunt for a suspect they allege stabbed a sheriff’s deputy as he was being sought in connection with his grandmother’s killing.

Law enforcement personnel responding to a Havelock, N.C. home regarding a structure fire and death investigation over the weekend found the body of 72-year-old Patricia Lopedote, the Craven County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement earlier this week.

During the investigation, which began on Saturday, Oct. 25, authorities identified the suspect as Lopedote’s grandson, Dominic Liam Connelly, per the statement.

Lopedote’s vehicle, which was missing from the residence, was located on Tuesday, Oct. 28, the sheriff’s office said in the statement issued that same day.

Police launched a manhunt for the 24-year-old suspect who was briefly seen on Wednesday at a business in Vanceboro, N.C., about 36 miles from where Lopedote’s body was found.

Connelly was inside a bathroom at the Bojangles when he allegedly assaulted a deputy sheriff with a knife before fleeing the scene, the Craven County Sheriff’s Office said in an updated statement on Thursday, Oct. 30.

Patricia Jean Timek Lopedote.

Craven County Sheriff’s Office

A motive behind Lopedote’s killing has not been announced.

The “beloved” grandmother, friend and sibling leaves behind a large family including several children and grandchildren, according to an online obituary.

Lopedote was known for her creativity and generous spirit, and the handcrafted Christmas ornament “she lovingly made each year for her family,” read part of the obituary. “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.”

Dominic Connelly.

Craven County Sheriff’s Office

Local schools have been shut down as the search for Connelly entered its second day on Friday, Oct. 31, News 12 reported.

A local event, the Eagles Fall Fest, has also been cancelled, per the outlet.

Connelly had been charged with murder, first degree arson and larceny of a motor vehicle, the sheriff’s office said in the initial stage of the investigation.

In their Thursday statement, the office said Connelly now faces additional charges of attempted first degree murder, felony assault on law enforcement causing serious injury and resisting a public officer.

Anyone assisting him in “his unlawful flight to avoid arrest and prosecution” will also face criminal charges, police said.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE’s free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

Crime Stoppers is offering a reward for information resulting in Connelly’s arrest, the sheriff’s office said.

Anyone who may have information on Connelly or the case overall is urged to contact law enforcement through several options: