Durham County officials have increased the reward for information leading to the arrest of the person responsible for the 2005 murder of 68‑year‑old Rosa Lee Crabtree. The governor’s office announced a $25,000 reward, up from the $5,000 previously offered.
Family hopes the larger reward brings answers
Crabtree’s niece, Tonya, spoke to WRAL about the renewed effort. “She was a lady who loved family, loved Jesus, loved to cook, loved the garden, loved flowers, loved thrift shopping, and loved a senior citizen deal. Full of life,” Tonya said, recalling her aunt’s vibrant spirit.
Tonya expressed optimism about the larger amount. “We are excited and hope maybe something comes from it because I was hoping for a $10,000 reward, and we have a $25,000 reward, and that’s just awesome,” she said.
Law‑enforcement actions
The Durham County Sheriff’s Office has reopened the case and sent evidence to the state crime lab for further testing. According to the governor’s office, the renewed investigation reflects a commitment to solving cold cases and delivering justice for victims and their families.
All of Crabtree’s siblings have passed away without closure, leaving Tonya and other relatives seeking answers. “When I go to places in these little towns—Rougemont, Roxboro, Hillsborough—I wonder if I’m looking at someone I know,” Tonya said. “We just want to know who and why.”
How to help
Anyone with information about the 2005 murder is asked to contact the Durham County Sheriff’s Office at 919‑560‑0897 or the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation at 919‑662‑4500. Tips can be submitted anonymously.
The case remains unsolved, and the community continues to hope that the increased reward will encourage new witnesses or informants to come forward, bringing long‑overdue closure to a family still grieving a tragic loss.
Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.
