An investigative grand jury recently issued a presentment that led to a homicide charge in the 2009 stabbing of Michael Evans in Lancaster city.
Lancaster city police on Monday charged 60-year-old Carl Hunter with killing Evans, who was stabbed in a West Lemon Street home on Dec. 18, 2009, and died a day later.
Hunter, who went by a nickname of “Low,” is not in custody.
Anyone with information on Hunter’s whereabouts is asked to contact Lancaster city police. Also, information can be submitted via this CrimeWatch page, or through Lancaster City-County Crime Stoppers. A $1,000 reward is offered for information that leads to Hunter’s capture.
An investigative grand jury, convened last year by Lancaster County District Attorney Craig Stedman, heard testimony on the case. The grand jury has subpoena power, but not indictment ability. In this case, the panel ultimately issued a presentment, or a recommendation that charges be filed based on testimony heard.
“The grand jury has again proven its value as a crucial tool in providing information from key witnesses, essential information in bringing charges,” District Attorney Stedman said.
Assistant District Attorney Mark Fetterman approved charges filed by Lancaster city police Detective Matthew Odenthal.
According to the presentment, Evans was killed amidst a marijuana grow operation involving himself and others. Police found marijuana plants at the West Lemon Street home, where Evans lived with a roommate.
Hunter went to the home on the night of Dec. 18, 2009, to discuss something with Evans regarding the grow operation. Hunter was an acquaintance of a female also involved in the grow operation.
During the discussion, Hunter stabbed Evans in the torso with a pair of scissors. Evans’ roommate was present and provided information.
Multiple individuals with knowledge of the incident and/or grow operation identified Hunter – known as “Low” - from a photo array.
Hunter, who lived in the 600 block of West Walnut Street at the time of the killing, is presumed innocent.
Regarding tips in the Hunter case: Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Odenthal at 717-735-3352 or odentham@lancasterpolice.com, or submit via Crime Stoppers (flier attached to this post) at 800-322-1913.
Also, you can anonymously Text a Tip to Crime Stoppers with your cellphone. Text LANCS, plus your message, to 847411. Callers do not have to give their names.
(NOTE: Cases heard by the grand jury must remain private, unless there is a presentment that is included in public charging documents, as in this case.)
MEDIA CONTACT: Brett A. Hambright, 717-295-2041; bhambright@co.lancaster.pa.us; Twitter: @BrettHambright