Clarkton man wanted for murder turns himself in

CLARKTON, NC (WWAY) — A murder suspect is now in custody after he turned himself in to Bladen County Police Saturday morning.

Sheriff James A. McVicker confirmed the arrest of Harold Eugene Swindell, 47, of 245 South Page Road for the murder of 38-year-old Lonnie Level Smith.

Smith was shot and killed during a fight at Oakdale Homes Wednesday afternoon. McVicker says Swindell was a suspect early in the case and warrants for his arrest were obtained Thursday. Officers had been actively searching for him since then.

McVicker stated Swindell went to the Bladen County Jail around 10:00 a.m. Saturday and told a deputy he heard he was wanted and wished to turn himself in. Swindell was processed and booked under no bond. He is charged with first degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

He will have his first appearance hearing in Bladen County District Court on Monday.