PENDER COUNTY — A jury convicted a Pender County man Tuesday for the 2021 stabbing death of his stepfather and the assault of his mother.
Michael Thomas Rich was found guilty of first-degree murder in the killing of Paul Busovne and was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole by Judge Tiffany Powers.
READ MORE: WPD traffic stop leads to fentanyl, methamphetamine trafficking charges
Rich was also convicted of attempted murder and three felony assaults related to the attack on his mother. Judge Powers sentenced him to an additional 175 to 222 months for the attempted murder charge, to run concurrently with his life sentence, while arresting judgment on the felony assaults.
The incident occurred on Nov. 13, 2021, at a farmhouse on Shiloh Road. Rich, who had a history of mental health and substance abuse issues, was living on his parents’ property. According to testimony, the violence began when his parents attempted to speak with him about taking his medication. Rich stabbed Busovne 19 times before chasing and attacking his mother, breaking her ribs and clavicle.
Throughout the investigation and trial, Rich maintained he acted in self-defense, claiming his parents had previously shot him and tried to poison him — statements investigators confirmed were untrue. Following his initial arrest, Rich also attempted to flee from officers at a hospital after being cleared for back pain but was quickly apprehended.
At trial, the defense argued Rich acted in self-defense, diminished capacity, and insanity. However, the jury reached a unanimous guilty verdict after 40 minutes of deliberation following a week of evidence.
“The hard work of the Pender County Sheriff’s Office and the DA’s Office, along with the bravery of the surviving victim to confront her attacker, allowed this Pender County jury to deliver justice in this case,” District Attorney Jason W. Smith said in a release.
At Port City Daily, we aim to keep locals informed on top-of-mind news facing the tri-county region. To support our work and help us reach more people in 2026, please, consider helping one of two ways: Subscribe here or make a one-time contribution here.
We appreciate your ongoing support.
