Two suspects charged with killings of elderly men

FAYETTEVILLE, NC (AP) — Authorities say two men have been arrested after two elderly men living about 15 miles from each other were robbed and killed earlier this week in their homes near Fayetteville.

Investigators said in a news release that 22-year-old Brandon Stewart and 20-year-old Brandon Avery are each charged with two counts of murder.

Authorities say 76-year-old James Stocks was found shot to death in his home in the Cedar Creek community in Cumberland County Sunday morning. The next day, 72-year-old James Bryant was found dead from gunshots in his home in Fayetteville about 15 miles away.

Investigators haven’t said whether there are any connection between the victims.

It wasn’t known if Stewart or Avery had attorneys. They are awaiting a bond hearing next week.

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