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War Veteran Found Dead In Fayetteville Home

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FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — A decorated war veteran was found dead in his Fayetteville home Tuesday. Investigators think he was murdered.

Shelly Wooten Jr., 78, fought in the Korean War and receieved a Purple Heart. Family members say Wooten was known in the Fayetteville area for his love of music, his generosity and energetic personality.

"He just loved to keep busy. He always thought that, 'if I slow down, then I won't be able to keep going.' He just loved to stay busy," said Martha Whitehead, Wooten's daughter.

His daughter said Wooten was found in his bed. His body was wrapped in a sheet and bound with duct tape. Authorities spent Tuesday afternoon gathering evidence at the Lincoln Drive home. They believe robbery may have been a motive.

"It makes me feel sad. How can someone be so mean and cruel to somebody who has been so nice to them," said Phyllis Moore, Wooten's daughter.

Family members said some money that Wooten kept in his house was missing. So far, no arrests have been made.

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