Former Care Facility Worker, Cynthia Sellars Faces Murder Charge in North Carolina Senior's Death


Police in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, have reported that what initially seemed to be an assault case tragically evolved into a homicide, leading to the passing of an elderly woman due to her injuries. 

The authorities have alleged that Cynthia Williams Sellars, a former employee of an assisted living facility, is responsible for the death of Lillie Johnson Cooper, 88.

According to the account provided by officers, the incident began with a dispute at the Windsor Point Retirement Community on September 24, during Sellars' employment at the facility located at 1221 Broad Street in Fuquay-Varina. 

Law enforcement responded to the scene following a report of an altercation between a staff member and a resident.

Allegedly, Sellars forcefully pushed Cooper to the ground, resulting in significant injuries that required immediate medical attention at a hospital. Fuquay-Varina police Captain Brett Walsh confirmed that the act was captured on camera, highlighting the severity of Cooper's injuries, including a broken hip.

Initially charged with assault on individuals with a disability, Sellars faced escalated accusations after Cooper's health deteriorated, leading to her passing on October 6. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (NCOCME) conducted an investigation and concluded that Cooper's death was a homicide, with the assault being the primary cause. 

Based on this evidence, along with detailed witness testimonies and consultation with the District Attorney's office, authorities charged Cynthia Sellars with one count of murder.

Those close to Cooper shared warm sentiments about her, describing the great-grandmother as a beautiful person both inside and out. Former colleagues at the assisted living facility fondly remembered her, expressing sorrow over her passing and acknowledging the impact of her absence.

Cynthia Sellars is currently held without bond at the Wake County Detention Center, with her next court appearance scheduled for November 15.


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