MORGANTON, N.C. — Three people are facing charges after a group of people kayaking found human remains in a river, according to a release from the Burke County Sheriff's Office.
On Aug. 30, deputies responded to an area near a canoe access on Corpening Bridge Road for a death investigation. The Sheriff's Office said kayakers found human remains near the Corpening Bridge.
After an investigation, deputies executed a search warrant at a home on Pax Hill Road in Morganton. Robert Ford Dale, Jr., 58, 35-year-old Rocky Lee Dale and 50-year-old Lorie Knight Stevens were taken into custody and each charged with felony concealment of death and disturbing human remains.
The investigation is still ongoing. Deputies said additional charges are expected.
Note: WCNC instituted a policy in March 2021 regarding the broadcast or posting of mugshots.
WCNC will only air or post a mugshot if the person has been formally charged with a crime and in a few other cases. The exceptions include: If it appears the person could be a danger to themselves or others or if they are wanted by authorities; to differentiate between people with a common name; if the photos could encourage more victims to come forward. The news-editorial leadership may also decide to use a mugshot based on the severity of the crime(s) committed and/or the level of public interest in the crime and ensuing criminal proceedings.