06/06/2026
Update
A joint investigation by the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office and Lumberton Police Department has resulted in the arrest of a Lumberton man after a missing woman was found deceased.
On Wednesday, June 4, 2026, Nancy Ellen Lowery, 68, of Lumberton was reported missing by family members. Information obtained during the investigation led Detectives to an area near 7th Street Road, John Henry Lee Road, and Highway 41 North in Lumberton.
As the investigation progressed, Investigators located Lowery’s vehicle, which had been burned in a cemetery near Hwy 41 N. and Moore’s Ln, Lumberton.
Investigators arrested Anthony Ray McDonald, 37, of Lumberton after a foot pursuit near his residence.
McDonald has been charged with:
• First-Degree Murder
• First-Degree Kidnapping
• Larceny of a Motor Vehicle
• Arson
• Altering, Destroying, or Stealing Evidence
McDonald is currently being held without bond at the Robeson County Detention Center.
“Nancy Lowery did not deserve to lose her life in such a tragic and senseless manner,” stated Sheriff Burnis Wilkins.
“Not the outcome we hoped for, and while nothing can undo the pain and heartbreak her family and friends are now facing, I am grateful for the collaborative efforts of the multiple law enforcement agencies that worked tirelessly to bring this investigation to a successful conclusion. On behalf of the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office, we extend our deepest condolences and prayers to the family and loved ones of Nancy Lowery during this difficult time.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
The investigation is being led by the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division.
The Nash County Sheriff’s Office and Robeson County Sheriff’s Office Aviation Divisions assisted with the investigation.
Anyone with information related to this case is asked to contact the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office at 910-671-3100.
