Police: 2 arrested in connection with homicide of Richmond Co. store owner

RICHMOND COUNTY, N.C. — A Richmond County community is in mourning after the owner of a popular general store was found dead.

On Tuesday morning, someone came and put flowers on the door of the Norman General Store. Many people in the area are in shock at the homicide that has rocked the small community.

Deputies arrested Alexander and Henry Ingram, who they said are cousins, in connection with the homicide.

Police said the two men killed Mike Collins while robbing the store Monday night.

Residents said the store is a family business, run by a couple and their son.  Friends of Ingram said  he worked the night shift, closing at 11 p.m.

Residents said when he didn't come home Monday night, his wife went to the store and discovered his body.

Regular customers said the Ingram must have known and trusted whoever killed him because he kept a gun behind the counter in case of a robbery.

"He's not just going to let nobody come in there and get the best of him, if he didn't know them he didn't trust them," said customer Allen Hines.

The sheriff has not released any information on a possible motive.

The two men are due to make their first court appearance Dec. 12.

WSOC