Jimmy Ray Matthews Death – A Harnett County family is facing difficulties after authorities suspect foul play in the death of their missing husband, father, and grandfather. It is believed that his body was discovered in a pond near a high school last week. Jimmy Ray Matthews, aged 55, went missing on April 8, which happened to be one of his son’s birthdays. His son, Dillon Matthews, organized search efforts while his father was missing.
On April 11, the Matthews family reported Jimmy missing from their home on Jarvis Lane near Dunn, according to the Harnett County sheriff’s office.
Four days later, the family’s worst fears were realized. On April 15, just before 6 p.m., the Erwin Police Department found a body in a pond at 495 Maynard Lake Road, approximately a block away from Triton High School and a little over a mile from Matthews’ residence.
The body was identified as Jimmy Ray Matthews, and deputies delivered devastating news – investigators believe that Matthews was murdered. Dillon Matthews confirmed on Saturday that the police are still actively investigating the case as a homicide.
The family was not only shocked by Jimmy Matthews’ disappearance and death but also by the fact that he was killed by someone.
“You did not deserve this. Nobody deserves that. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers, please,” Dillon wrote on Facebook, accompanied by a photo of his father and one of his granddaughters. “Thank you to EVERYONE who helped share and search for him.”
Now, the family must cope with the tragic loss while also facing the unexpected expenses of a funeral.
“Something I would never have imagined my family having to endure, but the passing of my dad was very unexpected and sudden,” Dillon expressed.
To assist the Matthews family with the funeral costs, a GoFundMe page has been established.
Authorities urge anyone with information about the case to contact the Harnett County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division at (910) 893-0140 or the tip line at (910) 893-0300.