NEW HANOVER COUNTY — The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a homicide case after the discovery of a deceased man buried in a yard.
The victim, Lawrence Grabka, a 69-year-old male, was reported by a friend on Wednesday.
Deputies responded to 5501 Myrtle Grove Road for a welfare check. They met with Elvin Noel Baca, a 34-year-old male and roommate of Grabka. Through forensic work by CSI and major crimes detectives, they unearthed a body and determined Grabka was murdered and buried in a shallow grave in the backyard of the residence.
Detectives arrested Baca, 34n, and charged him with first-degree murder and failure to report a death. He is being held in the New Hanover County Detention Facility under no bond.
“The circumstances surrounding this case are deeply concerning, and our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones during this difficult time; our priority remains seeking justice for the victim,” Sheriff Ed McMahon said in a press release.
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