SMITHFIELD — A 39-year-old Wendell man accused of violently assaulting an elderly couple during a home invasion on Wednesday made his first court appearance Friday.
Thomas Lee Wright is charged in connection with a Wednesday incident at a home in the 2000 block of Devil’s Racetrack Road near Four Oaks. Authorities say Wright unlawfully entered the residence of an 81-year-old man and his 74-year-old wife and assaulted both victims.
The couple sustained serious injuries, including broken bones, and were transported to the hospital for treatment. The male victim has since been released, while the female victim remains hospitalized at WakeMed.
Investigators allege that following the initial incident, Wright was involved in a second home invasion involving another elderly victim. No injuries were reported in that case. Wright is also accused of breaking into two vehicles, though authorities say he was unsuccessful in stealing either one.
During Friday’s court appearance, a judge increased Wright’s secured bond from $250,000 to no bond. He will remain in custody at the Johnston County Detention Center…