Home News 

Story

Hispanic Men May Have Been Targeted In Deadly Morganton Home Invasion

Posted: 5:39 pm EDT August 27, 2007

Roommates of two men shot during a deadly home invasion believe they were targeted for their ethnicity, and Morganton police agree.

Gaspar Torres said he and the four men he lived with on Jones Street got paid on Friday afternoon, and several hours later, two armed men forced their way into the home in what police believe was a robbery attempt. A struggle ensued and the attackers fired several shots.

Pedro Ramirez was shot and killed and Manual Vargas was also injured.

Torres said he believes their home was targeted because all the roommates are Hispanic, and the robbers probably thought they had a lot of cash. Investigators said such home invasions involving Hispanics probably happen more than they know because illegal immigrants are afraid to report them to authorities.

Torres said he and the other men just came to the states looking for a better life.

Marcus Ramirez set up a candle to burn in the room where the two men were shot. He said he’ll miss his friend.

Police are looking for a tall, thin black man who was armed with a rifle and a thin white man with dirty blond hair who was carrying a pistol. Anyone with information is asked to call Morganton Public Safety at (828) 437-1211.

  • RELATED STORY: Police: One Killed, One Injured In Robbery Gone Bad
  • More Headlines

    Desktop Weather Alerts

    Receive weather warnings, watches and advisories right on your desktop along with the latest news from WSOC-TV. Click here to add it to yours! Full Story ››


    Charlotte Events

    Let us help you plan your weekend with fun things to do in Charlotte, check out our featured events or find a concert or sporting event to attend. Full Story ››


    E-Mail News

    E - News Registration
     7 a.m. Headlines
    9 a.m. Headlines
    12 p.m. Headlines
    4 p.m. Headlines
    9 p.m. Headlines
    Breaking News Alerts
    Make WSOCTV.com Your Home Page

    E-Mail News

    E - News Registration
     7 a.m. Headlines
    9 a.m. Headlines
    12 p.m. Headlines
    4 p.m. Headlines
    9 p.m. Headlines
    Breaking News Alerts

    Show Off!

    Good Times - Submit Your Pet Pics Here! - Image From Jennifer Bolin
    Jennifer Bolin
    Our pet gallery of photos keeps growing and growing. We love the photos you've sent in, so please keep them coming. Submit your online photos here!!! Full Story ››
    SLIDESHOW: Good Times | SLIDESHOW: What'cha Doin? | SLIDESHOW: You Know You Love Me
    More Slideshows >>