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Trial Begins For Two Teens Accused Of Murdering Onslow County Woman

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JACKSONVILLE — Opening statements began Monday morning in the trial of two teens accused of killing an 89-year-old Onslow County woman.

Elleze Kennedy was kidnapped from her Newton Grove home last year. Her body was found the next day in her burned-out car.

Kennedy is the aunt of state representative Leo Daughtry.

Bryan Bell, 21, and Antwaun Sims, 20, both of Newton Grove, could face the death penalty if convicted on murder and robbery charges.

Lee Peak is still shaken by her aunt's horrible murder.

"I thought it was so vicious. I have always said if they had just taken a gun and shot her, I could have taken that," she says. "It would have been hard, but to torture an 89-year-old lady like they did is just hard to take."

A third teen has already pleaded guilty and will testify against Bell and Sims.

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