On November 7, 2024, Michael Powell, aged 72, and his wife, Carolyn Powell, aged 70, were tragically found deceased outside their home near Gaston, North Carolina. Both had sustained fatal gunshot wounds to the head, inflicted at point-blank range by a shotgun.
Authorities swiftly identified the suspect as 35-year-old Ryvaries Butcher, a close neighbor and relative of the Powells. Following the shootings, Butcher allegedly stole the couple's truck and fled the scene.
The vehicle was later located in a hotel parking lot in Roanoke Rapids, leading to Butcher's arrest without incident.
Butcher has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder and one count of felony larceny of a motor vehicle. He is currently held without bond on the murder charges, with a $35,000 secured bond for the vehicle theft. His next court appearance is scheduled for November 19.
The motive behind this tragic incident remains unclear and is under active investigation by the Northampton County Sheriff's Office. The community mourns the loss of the Powells, who were regarded as pillars of their community and active members of their local church.
