Search ends for robbery, carjacking suspect when body found in watery culvert

FLETCHER, N.C. (WLOS) — The search for a man wanted for a robbery and carjacking in North Carolina last month ended Thursday when his body was foundin a watery culvert under a road.

Police in Fletcher, south of Asheville, said they found Jacob Allison Hoots, 38, afterseveral days of searching nearby fields and wooded areas.

They'd been searching for Hoots since the evening of Dec. 17 when authorities said he entered a convenience store and locked the door behind him.

Customers actually forced him out after he reportedly caused a disruption, tried to get behind the counter, and went into the women’s restroom.

We’re grateful for some good Samaritans who intervened,” Fletcher Police Chief Danny Terry said that night. “They recognized Mr. Hoots. They recognized suspicious behavior. So, they took action.

Outside, in what police called an effort to get away, Hoots headed for a car at the gas pumps. Two small children and an elderly woman were inside.

Police said Hoots entered the passenger side front door and climbed left, toward the driver’s seat. Family members saw him go inside and were able to quickly pull the children out.

Then, Hoot sped off, jumping a curb on his way out.

But the crime spree continued when Hoots collided with another vehicle, injuring that driver. From there, Hoots took off on foot and hadn't been seen until his body was found.

Police Chief Terry thanked several law enforcement agencies for helping with the search, saying,“Someone like Hoots, known and frequently encountered by law enforcement, doesn’t just disappear.”

The cause of Hoots' death is pending further investigation and the results of an autopsy.