Death Penalty Sought in Bahama Slaying

Prosecutors plan to pursue the death penalty against two people charged with gunning down a retired businessman last summer.

Posted 9:05 p.m. Apr 4, 2007 — Updated 9:05 p.m. Apr 4, 2007

DURHAM, N.C. — Prosecutors plan to pursue the death penalty against two people charged with gunning down a retired businessman last summer.

Edwin Knowles, 71, was found shot to death in his Bahama home last July. He was the retired owner and operator of Bug Man Exterminators in Durham and owned several rental properties, according to family members.

Anthony Rudolph Rankins, 41, of Raleigh, Christy Crittenton, 33, of Creedmoor, Brian Courtney Brooks, 38, of Garner, and Christopher Brooks, 41, of Garner, were charged with first-degree murder and first-degree robbery in the case.

Authorities said the four suspects stole jewelry, watches and currency from Knowles' home. After a struggle, someone shot the retired businessman in the head, authorities said.

Prosecutors said they would seek the death penalty against Crittenton and Rankins. Crittenton previously served several years in prison for stabbing a former Durham police officer to death.

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