Robert Martin Blanton, a 59-year-old man from Forest City, North Carolina, was found dead in his Big Springs apartment on April 4, 2019. Initially, his death was not treated as a homicide, but further investigation revealed that he had died from a gunshot wound to the chest. The case was later classified as a homicide, and authorities began a thorough investigation.
Over the years, detectives worked diligently to gather evidence and identify potential suspects.
In October 2023, the investigation led to the arrest of two men, Martiece Sanford, 27, and Steve Gentry, 64, both residents of Forest City. Sanford was charged with first-degree murder, while Gentry was charged with aiding and abetting first-degree murder. Both suspects were taken into custody and are being held without bond at the Rutherford County Detention Center.
The case remains under the jurisdiction of the district attorney's office, which is awaiting approval to bring charges against the suspects. The Blanton family continues to seek justice and closure, hoping for a resolution to the tragic loss of Robert Martin Blanton.
