Michael McLellan Sentenced for Hania Aguilar Murder

Michael McLellan, who pleaded guilty to the first-degree murder of 13-year-old Hania Aguilar, attempted to escape custody twice on the day of his sentencing, which resulted in a life sentence without parole. During transport to Central Prison, McLellan used a homemade key to free himself from handcuffs and later reached for a deputy's gun, leading to a struggle in the vehicle. The Robeson County Sheriff reported that a detention officer used pepper spray to subdue McLellan, which prompted him to surrender. McLellan's guilty plea also included charges related to two other victims from 2016 and 2018. Law enforcement was alerted to McLellan's escape attempts due to unusual movements in the backseat, prompting them to pull over and investigate. The case has been described as a significant moment for justice in the Lumberton community, according to local police officials.