Robert Pane Hale, a 67-year-old truck driver known affectionately as "Cowboy," was tragically shot and killed on June 24, 2019, in the parking lot of a Hardee's in Gaston, North Carolina. Hale was found lying between his commercial vehicle and his personal vehicle, and evidence collected at the scene suggested that robbery was the motive behind the crime.
Despite extensive investigations by the Gaston Police Department, Northampton County Crimestoppers, Halifax County Crimestoppers, and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, the case remains unsolved.
In the aftermath of Hale's death, his family has been vocal about seeking justice. Tiffany Hale, Robert's niece, has shared how her uncle was a father figure to her and how deeply his loss has affected their family. The community has also rallied around the family, with Governor Roy Cooper announcing a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for Hale's murder. Barnes Transportation, the company Hale drove for, has also offered a $2,000 reward for information.
Despite these efforts, no suspects or potential witnesses have been identified, and the case remains open. The family continues to hold out hope that someone will come forward with information that can bring closure to this tragic event. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the authorities to help solve this case and bring justice for Robert Pane Hale.
