Charles Ray Vines

Serial Killer

Charles Ray Vines: The River Valley Killer

Overview

Charles Ray Vines, infamously known as the "River Valley Killer," terrorized the River Valley region of Arkansas during the 1990s. While outwardly appearing as a devoted father and helpful neighbor, Vines harbored a dark side, committing heinous crimes against vulnerable women. His actions left an indelible mark on the communities of Sebastian and Crawford counties.

Early Life and Persona

Born and raised in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Vines was known in his community as a well-liked individual. He married in 1985 and had two sons, Tyler and Kyle. To outsiders, he seemed like a doting father, often taking his children hunting and fishing. However, beneath this facade lay a history of domestic abuse. Vines was reportedly violent towards his wife, leading to their divorce in 1989. He also inflicted trauma on his sons, with accounts of physical abuse and threats.

Confirmed Crimes

• Lilly Jones (April 10, 1993): An 89-year-old legally blind woman, Jones was brutally beaten and raped in her home in Fort Smith. She survived the attack, possibly because Vines believed she was dead.
• Juanita Wofford (June 23, 1993): A 58-year-old woman found murdered in her Fort Smith residence. The crime scene was described as horrific, with evidence indicating she was sexually assaulted post-mortem.
• Ruth Henderson (August 10, 1995): A 74-year-old woman from Crawford County, Arkansas. She was brutally assaulted and killed in a manner similar to Wofford, with numerous stab wounds.

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Confirmed Victims: (2)

Juanita Wofford Age: (58), Date of Death: 1993-06-23

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Suspected Victims:

Melissa Witt Age: (19), Date of Death: December 1, 1994

Survivors:

Lilly Jones Age: (89), Date of Attack: April 10, 1993

Unknown name Age: (16), Date of Attack: March 2000

Snapped: Notorious Charles Ray Vines (TV Episode 2021) - IMDb

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