You made some good points.
Even if this "Carl" is NOT the guy, there's a reason the N&O didn't offer basic information on a critical character in this Nationally prominent case. It also appears they went to lengths to hide his identity, not even listing his age or city of residence. This is no accident.
We can't be sure of his identity without some more information, but a close examination of that News and Observer article reveals that only certain information was provided and most was not revealed. It strains incredulity
to believe that Brian Taylor was not asked if they got high or drank, what time he dropped her off, and if they were intimate that evening.
I think this story has an Oz.
I haven't been following every post, but know the basic info pretty well...
..could you tell me what you mean by this, please.
Please don't forget that people are often PAID for interviews. A quick way to make a couple thousand bucks and you can really make up any story you want.