The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed the tragic death of Ernie Lee Locklear, a 65-year-old resident of Maxton, North Carolina, following what officials are calling a “senseless act of violence.”

The incident occurred on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, in a rural area of Robeson County.

The Incident
Discovery: Around 2:45 p.m. on Wednesday, deputies responded to the 2700 block of Morrison Road—a rural farming area near the Midway Cotton Gin—after receiving reports of an unresponsive person.

The Victim: Ernie Locklear was found unresponsive while working on a farm tractor in a field. He was transported to Scotland Medical Center in Laurinburg, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Homicide Investigation: Following an autopsy, the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office officially ruled the death a homicide. While the specific nature of his injuries has not been released to the public, Sheriff Burnis Wilkins described the killing as a “deeply disturbing” act committed while the victim was simply performing his routine daily work.

Official Statement
Sheriff Burnis Wilkins addressed the community regarding the tragedy:

“This gentleman was tragically killed while simply minding his own business, working on a farm tractor—a job that should have been routine and safe… We are asking anyone with information, no matter how small it may seem, to come forward.”

Obituary and Services
Ernie Lee Locklear (July 19, 1960 – April 15, 2026) was a well-known member of the Maxton community.

Funeral Home: Services are being handled by Richard Boles Funeral Service.

Arrangements: As of today, formal service arrangements are still being finalized. Family and friends have begun leaving tributes on his memorial wall, remembering him as a hardworking man whose life was taken far too soon.