Body found in Danville positively identified as missing North Carolina man

RALEIGH, N.C. (WSET) -- The body of missing man Anthony Banks Jr. has been positively identified, according to the Raleigh Police Department.

On Thursday, Sept. 17, the Raleigh Police Department reported that a body believed to be that of 39-year-old William Anderson Banks was found in Pittsylvania County.

Detectives with the Raleigh Police Departments charged Justin Fernando Merrit, 34, of Danville with murder in connection with the homicide of Banks.

“We know this arrest will not ease the pain the family and friends of Mr. Banks are experiencing with the loss of their loved one,” Raleigh Police Chief Cassandra Deck-Brown said. “We do, however, hope that they will gain some measure of comfort with this arrest.”

Police say Banks has been missing since Saturday, Sept. 12.

Police said that Banks was reported missing after he met with people interested in buying his car. Friends and family became worried when he wasn't answering calls or text messages.

“Mr. Banks did everything right,” RPD Homicide Captain Andy Murr said. “He arranged to meet in a public place during daylight hours. The suspect in this case had ulterior motives that led to the tragic death of Mr. Banks.”

On Sept. 14, authorities charged Merritt with robbery, larceny of motor vehicle and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in connection with a stolen vehicle.

Police say they found Banks' silver Range Rover in Danville, just over the North Carolina border on Monday.

The Raleigh Police Department said that this investigation is still active.