Twenty years after a Shelby man disappeared, Cleveland County deputies say the unsolved killing of Timothy Justin Grant is still very much on their desks, and they are again asking the public for help. Grant vanished in mid-July 2006, and his family has been waiting two decades for answers. Deputies say they continue to chase down leads and hope a new witness or tip can finally push the case forward.
How the case unfolded
As reported by Queen City News, Grant was last seen on July 16, 2006, and his family reported him missing the next day, July 17. Investigators say his black Dodge Stratus turned up abandoned at the Ramblewood Apartments in Shelby, and his body was found days later in a wooded area off Selkirk Road with an apparent gunshot wound. Those early discoveries left major questions that, deputies say, have kept the case open ever since.
Officials renew appeal and list tip lines
Per the Cleveland County Sheriff's Office, the investigation into Grant's death remains active, and his case is listed on the department's unsolved homicides page. The sheriff's office posts anonymous tip lines at (704) 484-4788 and (704) 484-4787. Local reporting also notes that Cleveland County Crime Stoppers can be reached at 704-481-TIPS (8477), as reported by WCCB.
Investigators say even small details could help
Investigators told Queen City News that they believe someone out there knows what happened to Grant and that even a seemingly minor detail could be the missing piece his family has been waiting for. Deputies note that memories fade over time, but fresh information can still matter, especially in older cases where physical evidence is limited. The 20th anniversary has become a moment for a renewed public push, in hopes that anyone who has stayed silent or uncertain will now come forward.
How to share what you know
Anyone with information is urged to contact the sheriff's criminal investigations division or to submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers. Deputies say tips can remain confidential and that anonymous leads have helped crack other cases in the county. Residents who remember unusual activity in mid-July 2006, recall seeing the vehicle investigators described, or have any detail that feels relevant are encouraged to revisit old notes, messages, or memories and reach out to investigators.
