Ray Anthony Pruitt, a 57-year-old man, was found dead in his Winston-Salem apartment on February 3, 2022. Pruitt, who was African American, had been shot multiple times. The police were called to his home at 120 Weatherwood Court, apartment T, after receiving a call about unknown trouble at the residence. Upon arrival, officers found Pruitt suffering from gunshot wounds. Forsyth Emergency Medical Services arrived shortly thereafter and pronounced him dead at the scene. The Winston-Salem Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division took over the investigation, which they believe to be an isolated incident.
In the months following Pruitt's death, significant developments occurred in the investigation. Michael Christopher Thompson, a 46-year-old man, was charged with robbery with a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm by a felon, and murder in connection with Pruitt's death. Court documents allege that Thompson shot Pruitt and then took money and marijuana from his apartment. Additionally, Michael Tyrone Davis, 45, and Ciera Lenise Ballard, 27, were also identified as suspects. Davis was charged with armed robbery and held under a $150,000 secured bond, while Ballard faced charges of armed robbery with her bond pending.
The investigation into Pruitt's death continued as authorities sought to piece together the events leading up to the fatal shooting. Despite the arrests, the case remained active, with the Winston-Salem Police Department urging anyone with information to come forward. The community was left grappling with the loss of Pruitt, as his death marked the third homicide in Winston-Salem in 2022. The incident highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in addressing violent crime and ensuring justice for victims and their families.
