Deputies release sketch of suspect who stabbed pastor

CASTLE HAYNE, NC (WWAY) — It’s been more than a month since a pastor in Castle Hayne was stabbed in the stomach. Today, deputies released a sketch of the suspect in hopes of finding the attacker.

The incident happened at the Castle Hayne Advent Christian Church on Dec. 23 around 8 a.m. That church is located on the corner of Castle Hayne Road and Hermitage Road.

Deputies said Pastor Randall Smith was stabbed in the abdomen in the attempted robbery; Smith was released from the hospital that evening.

The suspect is described as a white male, 5’9″ to 5’10”, 160-175 lbs., 30-40 years of age, long dark hair with a beard wearing a black hoodie with a camo jacket.