Murder suspect wanted in Columbus County captured in Wake County

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — A murder suspect, wanted in Columbus County, has been arrested following a weeks-long search.

The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office said Eric Lamont Martin Jr., 18, is accused of shooting and killing Raphael Gowans on June 11 on Berry Lane.

CCSO said Martin was arrested on Saturday morning in Wake County.

Court documents show he appeared Monday in a Columbus County court and was appointed a public defender.

Martin is being held without bond.

Isaiah Napoleon Cooper, 19, was also arrested in connection with the case.

Martin and Cooper are also facing additional charges in connection with a double homicide in Roanoke Rapids.