Robin Doyle, 58, was reported missing on July 28 after last being seen by a family member the previous day. Her disappearance from her Hickory, North Carolina, home prompted a search by the Catawba County Sheriff's Office.
Deputies discovered Doyle deceased on Friday in a wooded area in northeastern Catawba County. Following the discovery, authorities arrested Leroy Allen Loper, 54, charging him with felony murder, first-degree kidnapping, and concealment of death.
Officials noted that Loper is a registered sex offender with previous felony convictions for first-degree kidnapping and second-degree forcible sexual offense.
He is currently being held at the Catawba County Detention Facility without bond. Catawba County Sheriff Don Brown issued a statement expressing condolences to Doyle's family, emphasizing the commitment to holding the responsible party accountable and noting the investigation remains active.
Friends and colleagues described Doyle as a kind, generous, and warm individual who was a familiar and welcoming presence at the Propst Superette, where she worked. A tribute at the store read, "Robin, the world wasn’t ready for you to leave, but heaven needed you home."