Lonnie Alford Ray, a 76-year-old male, was a respected dog breeder from Bishopville, South Carolina. An Army veteran who served in the Vietnam War, he was known for his passion for animals and his work as a carpenter. He was a family man who cherished his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
On the evening of February 6, 2023, what began as a business transaction turned into a fatal encounter.
Ray had arranged to sell a French bulldog for $2,500 in the parking lot of a KFC in Bishopville. He was accompanied by an acquaintance. The prospective buyers, however, had violent intentions. Instead of completing the purchase, several men ambushed Ray, grabbing the dog's leash and opening fire. Ray was struck by multiple gunshots and died a short time later. His companion was not injured in the attack.
The senseless act of violence sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an intensive investigation by the Lee County Sheriff's Office. In the wake of the shooting, law enforcement officials appealed to the public for information that could lead to the capture of those responsible. The investigation led to the arrests of two Lee County men, 41-year-old Michael Dinkins and 32-year-old Byron Miller. Both men were charged with murder, attempted murder, and armed robbery. Following their arrests, they were held at the Sumter County Sheriff's Office Detention Center after being denied bond.
