Snakes for sale: Cape Fear Serpentarium closes a year after owner's death

Last year, Cape Fear Serpentarium Director William Beard took over operations following Ripa's death, but the business faced challenges during complicated estate proceeding.

A legal petition to sell the building was filed on behalf of Ripa's son, Arken, early last month, according to WilmingtonBiz.com. The move seemed to surprise Beard and the current operators of the business.

"Despite our best efforts in trying to keep this attraction for Wilmington, this plan to sell the serpentarium was already in motion – unbeknownst to us. All we can hope for is the best possible outcome for Arken Ripa, Dean’s son. We have invested a lot of time and money since our closing, being hopeful we would be able to reopen. Regrettably this is out of our control… but we thank you all for your continued support and encouragement during this journey to continue Dean’s legacy," the operators wrote on the business' Facebook page.

Ripa, 60, was found shot to death at his home on on May 13, 2017. His wife, Regina Ripa, was charged with first-degree murder in his death and is awaiting trial.

Dean Ripa opened the 10,000 square-foot seprentarium in 2011 on Orange Street in Wilmington. The facility featured more than 50 displays of exotic animals, including many venomous snakes.