(UPDATE)
MAXTON, NC –– Ernie Locklear, 65 years old of Maxton, was transported to a hospital in Scotland County, where he died from his injuries.
Deputies said that based on the preliminary results of an autopsy conducted by the North Carolina Medical Examiner’s Office, Locklear’s cause of death has been determined to be a homicide.
“This is a deeply disturbing and senseless act,” Sheriff Burnis Wilkins said. “This gentleman was tragically killed while simply minding his own business, working on a farm tractor, a job that should have been routine and safe.”
Authorities seek public assistance following discovery near Midway Cotton Gin
MAXTON, NC — The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office has launched a homicide investigation after a grim discovery was made Wednesday, April 15 in the Maxton area.
Deputies were dispatched to the vicinity of the Midway Cotton Gin at approximately 2:45 p.m. following reports of an unresponsive individual. Upon arrival, emergency responders located a man sitting on a tractor. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators have officially ruled the death a homicide, though the victim’s identity is currently being withheld pending the notification of next of kin. Crime scene investigators remained on the scene for several hours Wednesday evening collecting evidence.
No information regarding a potential suspect or motive has been released at this time. Authorities are asking anyone who may have seen anything unusual in the area of the cotton gin on Wednesday afternoon to contact the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Division.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information is made available by law enforcement.
© 2026 BCDollarSaver.com. All Rights Reserved.
Be the first to comment