ROBESON COUNTY — A Maxton man is facing three counts of first‑degree murder after deputies discovered three people dead inside a camper near Prospect early Sunday morning. Ethan Lee Spaulding, 27, was arrested later that day following a brief standoff in Red Springs, according to the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies were called to the 200 block of Old Red Springs Road around 6:39 a.m. after receiving a report of multiple unresponsive individuals. When investigators entered the camper, they found three victims deceased. Their identities have not yet been released pending notification of family members.
Detectives quickly identified Spaulding as the primary suspect. Sheriff’s Office investigators, assisted by the agency’s Violent Crimes Task Force, tracked him to the Robinwood Apartments in Red Springs. When deputies attempted to take him into custody, Spaulding refused to come out, prompting the activation of the Sheriff’s Office Negotiations Team.
After a short standoff, Spaulding surrendered without incident and was taken into custody.
Charges Filed
Spaulding is charged with:
- Three counts of first‑degree murder
- Robbery with a dangerous weapon
- Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
- Discharging a weapon within an enclosure to incite fear
He is being held without bond at the Robeson County Detention Center.
Sheriff’s Statement
Sheriff Burnis Wilkins called the killings “a senseless and tragic act of violence” and said additional charges may be possible as the investigation continues. Detectives are working to establish a motive and determine the sequence of events leading up to the homicides.
Ongoing Investigation
The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigations Unit, Homicide Division, and multiple assisting agencies continue to process evidence and interview witnesses. Authorities have not released information about the relationship between Spaulding and the victims.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office.
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