Governor offers $25,000 reward in deadly Whiteville attack
WHITEVILLE, NC (WWAY) — Gov. Josh Stein announced Wednesday that the state is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for a deadly attack in Columbus County.
According to the governor’s office, the reward is connected to the killing of Cynthia Hansen, 71, in Whiteville.
“We must use every tool at our disposal to pursue justice for victims,” Stein said. “I urge North Carolinians who have information about cases like this one to contact local law enforcement and help us provide closure to victims’ families.”
According to authorities, officers responded on March 11, 2026, to Hansen’s business, Stronger Body Fitness on North Thompson Street in Whiteville, where she was found severely beaten.
Officials said Hansen was still alive when officers arrived and was able to provide limited details about the attack.
She was transported to Columbus Regional Healthcare System, where she later died from her injuries.
The Whiteville Police Department said it will hold a press conference Thursday, April 16 at Whiteville City Hall regarding the ongoing homicide investigation.
Police say updated information related to the case will be provided..
The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Whiteville Police Department at 910-642-5111 or the State Bureau of Investigation at 919-662-4500.
