NHC Sheriff’s Dept. identify weapon in Vann murder, may have DNA

The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Department says they identified the weapon and believe they have DNA from a suspect in the Corey Vann murder investigation.

It has been more than a month since 20-year-old Corey Vann was shot on River Road after leaving work at Brunswick Cove Nursing Home. Relatives were worried the case had gone cold, but the sheriff’s department says their investigation continues.

Chief Deputy Ed McMahon says investigators have several suspects and search warrants in the case. “You know we always feel confident when we have evidence that we’re waiting to process, when we have more leads coming in and we’re able to do search warrants.”

McMahon says being able to identify the weapon was a big step in the investigation. Vann has a criminal record, including drug possession, stolen goods possession, and carrying a concealed weapon, but friends and family say he had turned his life around.

McMahon added that many of their leads have come from the public. The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Department is encouraging anyone with information to call 910-798-4260.