Armed Robbery at Little Caesars

On January 2, 2024  at 8:42 am Morganton Department of Public Safety Officers were dispatched to Little Caesars on W Fleming Drive in reference to an assault call. When officers arrived they discovered that an employee was beaten and bleeding from the head. Officers requested Burke County EMS to respond due to the victims injuries. The victim was transported to the hospital for treatment. During the investigation it was determined that the assault occurred during the commission of an attempted armed robbery. MPDS Criminal Investigations Division responded to the scene. The investigation revealed that a firearm was used during the robbery. A suspect has been identified as James Andre Mcelreath of 2566 Jamestown Rd Lot 3, Morganton, NC. Warrants have been issued on Mcelreath for attempted armed robbery, kidnapping, and assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury. Mcelreath has not been
arrested at this time and is considered armed and dangerous.

The investigation in this case continues and there may be additional charges pending. If you have any additional information please contact Inv. Dellinger at 828-437-1211 or Morganton/Burke Crimestoppers at 828-437-3333. If you see James Andre Mcelreath do not approach him and contact Law Enforcement with the information or call 911.