Update: arrest made in murder investigation
The following update was posted on the Kinston Police Department Facebook
**UPDATE**
On July 12, 2023, KPD Violet Crime Action Team received information that Retho Gardner was hiding out at a residence on the 900 block of Candlewood Dr. Gardner had 1st Degree Murder warrants for the homicide of Franklin Bowden. After an investigation, a search warrant was obtained by detectives. KPD SWAT, Patrol, and ALE assisted with the execution of the search warrant. Gardner surrendered peacefully and was taken into custody.
Previous Kinston Police Department Facebook post:
The Kinston Police Department has obtained warrants for Retho Gardner (39) of Kinston in connection with the shooting and murder of Franklin Antonio Bowden II. Mr. Gardner is wanted for First Degree Murder, and should be considered armed and dangerous.
Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts is asked to call the Kinston Police Department’s Tips Line at 252-939-4020 or Lenoir County Crime Stoppers at 252-523-4444.
Calls to Crime Stoppers are confidential and anonymous, and the caller may be eligible for a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest.