Mallet Probably Not Connected to Young Murder Probe

Raleigh, N.C. — Investigators returned a search warrant Tuesday in connection with the murder investigation of a young, pregnant Raleigh mother.

The warrant, issued April 7, states that a neighbor mowing her lawn on April 4 found a mallet on the edge of the front yard at 5108 Birchleaf Drive, the home of Michelle Young. The neighbor immediately called authorities.

Young, 29, was found beaten to death inside her home on Nov. 3. Her young daughter was found at her side, unharmed.

Because an autopsy determined Young was killed with a blunt object, authorities seized the mallet and had it tested for evidence.

Wake County Sheriff Donnie Harrison said that after preliminary tests, however, investigators don't believe it's related to the case.

"The SBI has it now," Harrison said Tuesday. "CCBI (City County Bureau of Investigation) has looked at it. Is it a part of the case? We don't think so."

Six months after Young's death, authorities have not named any suspects or made any arrests. They have, however, focused on Young's husband, Jason Young, who has generally refused to speak to investigators.