HENDERSON, N.C. — Investigators have arrested a man they believe is responsible for the murder of a Henderson woman.

Marcel LaPrince Johnson, 20, of Henderson was arrested Tuesday afternoon at a Flint Street residence. He is charged with first-degree murder in the death of Mary Alice Brummitt, 67.

According to Henderson Police Chief Glen Allen, robbery was the motive.

Allen said an investigation by Henderson police and the State Bureau of Investigation indicates that Johnson -- whose last known address is 215 Zollicoffer Ave., -- entered Brummitt's house next door at 217 Zollicoffer Ave. late Thursday or early Friday, severely beat her and tied her up, which caused her death.

Brummitt was found dead inside her home by a family member Saturday morning.

Items stolen from Brummitt's house, including her car, were recovered. The wrecked car was located Friday about 15 miles away in Granville County.

Johnson has also been charged with first-degree kidnapping, first-degree burglary and auto theft.

"He had a relative who lived next door (to Brummitt). He doesn't necessarily stay at that house all the time. We know that he frequents Vance County as well as the Oxford and Durham areas," Allen said.