Mary Walters Cook, 56, of Lincolnton, North Carolina, was reported missing September 25, 2019, after family members had not heard from her for two days. Her vehicle was located at Johnny’s Mexican Restaurant on Highway 150; surveillance footage showed someone leaving the vehicle and walking toward the highway. Detectives found Cook’s body the next day off a bridge on Boy Scout Road.

The investigation led to the arrest of 60-year-old Steve Allen Avery, who was charged with first-degree murder. Investigators say bloodstains and other evidence recovered at Avery’s home, and their examination of the scene, indicated Cook had been shot with a .22 caliber rifle. Avery reportedly confessed, saying he transported Cook’s body to the location where it was found and then returned her vehicle to the restaurant. He was held without bond at the Lincoln County jail. The relationship between Cook and Avery has not been disclosed.

If anyone has information about Mary Walters Cook, her movements in the days before September 25, 2019, or other details that could help the investigation, please come forward.