**Father and Son Sentenced for Murder of 80-Year-Old Grandmother in North Carolina**
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In a tragic case that has left a community in mourning, Roger Wilkerson and his son Troy have both entered guilty pleas in connection with the death of 80-year-old Nancy Horton. The incident occurred during a traumatic home invasion at Horton’s residence in Roxboro, North Carolina, on September 20, 2022.
On Monday, April 27, in Person County Superior Court, Roger Wilkerson was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole after pleading guilty to first-degree murder. In addition, he received a minimum sentence of 10 years and eight months for related charges stemming from the case.
Troy Wilkerson, who was just 16 at the time of the crime, also pleaded guilty, but to second-degree murder. He was subsequently sentenced to a minimum of 23 years behind bars and, unlike his father, will have the opportunity for parole in the future.
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation confirmed the pleas and sentencing, expressing gratitude for the diligent work of all law enforcement personnel involved in bringing the case to justice. The agency shared updates on the proceedings via social media, highlighting the importance of community and investigative collaboration in resolving the matter.
Nancy Horton’s family reported her missing when they were unable to establish contact. Their concerns led them to her home, where they found her fatally shot. The investigative efforts revealed that Wilkerson and his son had allegedly entered her home through an unlatched window. According to former Person County Sheriff Dewey Jones, there were indications that Horton might have still been awake at the time of the invasion.
Investigators believe that following the fatal shooting, the two men attempted to steal Horton’s vehicle, further compounding the tragedy of the situation. The circumstances surrounding her death have shocked those who knew her, as she was described as a beloved member of her community.
Nancy Horton had operated a grocery store alongside her husband for an impressive 33 years, a testament to her strong ties to the local area. Her contributions to the community extended beyond her business, as she was an active member of the New Life Independent Baptist Church, where she is fondly remembered by fellow congregants.
This case highlights the growing concerns around home burglary and personal safety, sparking discussions in the Roxboro area about security measures for elderly residents living alone. The emotional repercussions of such a violent crime on a vulnerable individual have resonated deeply within the community, with many expressing their condolences for Horton’s family during this distressing time.
As the legal proceedings conclude for the Wilkersons, the community grapples with the reality of the crime and its impact. The long-lasting effects of the incident remind residents of the fragility of safety within their homes, especially for the elderly.
In a period filled with uncertainty and loss, the response from law enforcement has been commendable, with community members expressing relief at the conclusion of this chapter of the case. The sentencing serves as a solemn reminder of the violence that can interrupt lives unexpectedly and painfully, urging a call for vigilance and compassion towards one another in the face of adversity.