Story perspectives

Grandson Charged in Double Murder of Pitt County Couple

1/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rayfield Ruffin (72) and Francis Ruffin (67) were found dead at their Pitt County home January 2, 2026, from blunt force trauma and knife wounds.
Their 34-year-old grandson, Martinez Ruffin, is charged with the murders.
Pitt County Sheriff Paula Dance said investigators had prior interactions with Martinez Ruffin.
The case follows a prior tragedy at the same home, when the couple's five-year-old great-grandson was accidentally shot, and family members mourn.

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Story summary

Rayfield Ruffin (72) and Francis Ruffin (67) were found dead at their Pitt County home January 2, 2026, from blunt force trauma and knife wounds.
Their 34-year-old grandson, Martinez Ruffin, is charged with the murders.
Pitt County Sheriff Paula Dance said investigators had prior interactions with Martinez Ruffin.
The case follows a prior tragedy at the same home, when the couple's five-year-old great-grandson was accidentally shot, and family members mourn.