Robert McNeill Convicted of First-Degree Murder

Robert McNeil, who is already serving a 23-year sentence for robbinga different Food Lion store in 1993, showed no emotion when the jury'sverdict was read.

Shirley Myers, Truelove's mother, talked to WRAL TV5'sMark Robertsin the parking lot of the store where the crime occurred, after the verdict wasread. She said she always thought Robert McNeil said she always thoughtRobert McNeil was the mastermind, and that the verdict would bring hersome peace.

Roberta McNeill, Robert McNeill's mother, bolted from the courtroomwhen she heard the verdict. As she ran down the stairs, she said, "Therewas "no justice in Wake County today".

The same jury will reconvene Wednesday for the sentencing phase.McNeill could join his brother Elmer Ray McNeill, 25, ondeath row.

Prosecutors contended that Elmer Ray McNeill shot the two men, whileRobert McNeill plotted the robbery and shootings. Elmer Ray McNeillrefused to testify against his brother when called by prosecutors to takethe witness stand.

The gun has never been found, nor have any witnesses been discovered.

The charges and trial have split the McNeill family, with another brother, Michael, testifying about what he said was an incriminating phone call from Elmer Ray five months after the slayings. The McNeill parents are siding with the accused sons.

Roberta McNeill said after Elmer Ray's sentencing hearing that shemightbe able to forgive Michael McNeill when she is a very old woman, adding that if Elmer Ray dies, Michael is dead to her as well.