A 69-year-old Wilson man has been charged with the brutal murder of his 91-year-old mother, allegedly using a hammer in the deadly attack, police say.
The incident happened on Wednesday, Jan. 15, when officers responded to a call about a man walking on Lake Wilson Road wearing minimal clothing. Upon arrival, officers found the man, later identified as Stephen Ralph Laeppala, with blood on his hands and face. He was reportedly nonverbal at the scene.
Authorities from the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a home on Plantation Court, where they discovered Theresa Laeppala, 91, deceased in her bed. A hammer, believed to be the weapon used in the attack, was reportedly found on the bed near her body.
Stephen Ralph Laeppala has been charged with murder in connection to the incident. Law enforcement officials confirmed that the suspect has a history of mental health issues. He is currently being held without bond as the investigation continues.
