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NC Wanted: Rocky Mount murder remains unsolved after 24 years

It's one of Rocky Mount's most notorious murders. Magelene Puckett and her 81-year-old mother were attacked by intruders 24 years ago.

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ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. — It's one of Rocky Mount's most notorious murders. Magelene Puckett and her 81-year-old mother were attacked by intruders 24 years ago. 

On July 8, 1990 Pukett was beaten to death during a robbery at her mother's home. 

Investigators said three people were involved. 

"It's a hard secret to hold between three people," said Lt. Wayne Sears with the Rocky Mount Police Department.  "Somebody knows something, somewhere."

Investigators said the suspects got in through the kitchen window and were met by Puckett. She was assaulted and beaten. 

Her mother, Aggie Roberson, was also beaten, but survived. 

"[Roberson] managed to come out of the house and summon help from neighbors," Sears said. 

According to police, robbery was likely the motive. 

Roberson, the only witness, died six years after the crime. Making the investigation more difficult, neighbors first believed Puckett died of natural causes and began cleaning up the house before authorities arrived. 

"Part of the crime scene was destroyed by their efforts to clean up what they thought was a natural death, or a non crime related death," Sears said.

No arrests have been made in this case. 

Anyone with information is asked to call 1-866-439-2683. there is a cash reward for information leading to an arrest.

 

 

 

 

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