Written by Saturday, 1st, August 2026
CATAWBA COUNTY, N.C. – The Catawba County Sheriff’s Office has announced the arrest of a suspect in connection with the abduction and murder of 58-year-old Robin Doyle.
According to investigators, Leroy Allen Loper, 54, has been charged with Felony Murder, First-Degree Kidnapping, and Concealment of Death in the case.
Authorities said Loper is a registered sex offender with previous felony convictions for First-Degree Kidnapping and Second-Degree Forcible Sexual Offense. He is currently being held without bond at the Catawba County Detention Facility.
Loper is scheduled to make his first appearance in Catawba County District Court on Monday, August 3, 2026.
Sheriff Don Brown acknowledged the tragedy surrounding the case while announcing the charges.
“We are deeply saddened for Robin Doyle’s family as they continue to endure an unimaginable loss. While today’s charges mark a significant step in this investigation, they cannot undo the pain this family has suffered. The acts in this case represent pure evil, and those responsible will be held fully accountable under the law. This investigation remains active, and we will continue pursuing every fact until justice is fully served.“
The Sheriff’s Office also expressed appreciation to the agencies that assisted throughout the investigation, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), the Catawba County District Attorney’s Office, and the Surry County Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation remains active, and authorities have indicated that additional information may be released as it becomes available.
All persons charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
This is a developing story. Updates will be posted as additional information is released by law enforcement officials.