78-Year-Old Man Arrested In Connection To Fatal Shooting

Following the shooting, 78-year-old Joseph Stokes barricaded himself inside a residence. He was later taken into custody without incident.

One man is facing charges in connection to a homicide.

Around 5:20am Tuesday, police responded to the 9800 block of N.C. Highway 72 East near Lumberton on reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, 49-year-old Earl Carpenter was found deceased at the scene.

Following the shooting, 78-year-old Joseph Stokes barricaded himself inside a residence. He was later taken into custody without incident.

Stokes has been charged with first-degree murder and discharging a firearm within an enclosure to incite fear. He is being held at the Robeson County Detention Center without bond.

The investigation remains underway and anyone with information should contact Robeson County officials.