LINCOLN COUNTY, NC – A harrowing case unfolds in North Carolina as authorities charge Michael Steven Ricker, 36, with first-degree murder in connection with the death of 63-year-old Lesa Armstrong Rose. This disturbing incident follows Ricker’s prior arrest for allegedly attempting to murder Rose’s husband earlier this year, raising questions about the justice system.
Ricker had initially faced charges related to the June shooting of Armstrong Rose’s husband, including attempted first-degree murder, shooting into an occupied residence, and possession of a firearm by a felon. Although he was initially denied bond on the attempted murder charge, his bond was later set at $55,000 for the additional charges.
Disturbingly, Ricker secured his release on a $25,000 bond just 12 days after his arrest, a fact that has drawn criticism from the victim’s family and raised concerns about the justice system. Lesa Armstrong Rose’s daughter, Amber Rose, expressed her frustration, stating, “I think we have a failed justice system – they worry more about the wrong things.”
The tragic incident occurred on October 21 when Armstrong Rose’s body was discovered in her home on Ginger Lane, Maiden. Initially reported as a cardiac arrest, it was later revealed that her injuries were inconsistent with a natural death. The victim’s 17-year-old granddaughter made the grim discovery of her grandmother’s body in the shared kitchen.
Amber Rose, who had been in a relationship with Ricker for seven years before it ended, spoke of her family’s initial positive impression of him. However, his behavior turned violent in recent years, leading to tragic consequences.
The case took a sinister turn when Rose’s car was set on fire just days before her mother’s murder, a fact confirmed by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office. Rose suspects Ricker’s involvement in the car fire but lacks evidence. She also revealed that Ricker had attacked her with brass knuckles shortly before her mother’s tragic death.
Michael Steven Ricker now faces charges of first-degree murder, adding to the existing charges related to the earlier shooting. He is currently held without bond at the Lincoln County Jail and is scheduled to appear in court on November 9.