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Chapin Man Charged with Murder and Kidnapping in Newberry

Police officers at the scene of a violent incident at College Park Apartments in Newberry.

Newberry, September 10, 2025

News Summary

David Ray Clark, a 53-year-old from Chapin, has been charged with multiple offenses including murder and kidnapping after a violent incident at College Park Apartments in Newberry. Authorities responded to reports of a shooting and discovered a deceased victim inside an apartment. Clark allegedly kidnapped a woman and child during the chaos, but they were later recovered unharmed. Law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident as the community grapples with the shocking events.

Newberry – David Ray Clark, a 53-year-old resident of Chapin, has been charged with murder and kidnapping following a violent incident at the College Park Apartments in Newberry on the morning of September 5, 2025. Clark faces multiple charges, including two counts of kidnapping, armed robbery, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, and risking harm to a child.

Authorities were alerted to a shooting and kidnapping taking place at the apartment complex. Police arrived on the scene and forced entry into one of the apartments, where they found Dexter Tobias Gary Sr., also aged 53, deceased from a gunshot wound. According to reports, during the turmoil, Clark allegedly compelled a woman and a child into a vehicle, prompting concerns about their safety.

Law enforcement agencies, including the Newberry Police Department and the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, successfully tracked down the kidnapped victims and Clark in Chapin. The woman and child were recovered unharmed and returned to Newberry. Following his arrest, Clark has been booked into the Newberry County Detention Center, where he was denied bond.

The Newberry County Coroner confirmed the identity of the shooting victim as Dexter Tobias Gary Sr. from Pomaria. Details regarding the condition of the kidnapped victims after their rescue were not disclosed, but reports indicate there were no additional injuries. An investigation into the shooting is currently underway, involving various law enforcement agencies to gather more information and assess the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

Newberry Police Chief Kevin Goodman has urged anyone with further information about the case to reach out to the Newberry Police Department or contact Midlands Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC. The investigation remains open as authorities continue to piece together the events that led to this tragic occurrence.

Understanding the Charges

David Ray Clark is facing serious allegations that can lead to severe consequences. The charges he has received include:

  • Murder
  • Two counts of kidnapping
  • Armed robbery
  • Possession of a weapon during a violent crime
  • Possession of a firearm by a person convicted of certain crimes
  • Unlawfully placing a child at risk of harm

The Incident Timeline

The incident unfolded early on the morning of September 5, 2025, at the College Park Apartments in Newberry:

  1. Police receive reports of a shooting and kidnapping.
  2. Officers respond and force entry into an apartment.
  3. They discover Dexter Tobias Gary Sr. deceased from a gunshot wound.
  4. Clark allegedly kidnaps a woman and a child.
  5. The victims are located and returned safely to Newberry.
  6. Clark is arrested, booked, and denied bond.

Community Response

This incident has left the Newberry community in shock as people come to terms with the violent events that unfolded. The involvement of multiple law enforcement agencies has provided reassurance to residents that efforts are being made to ensure public safety and justice for the victim and affected families.

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation’s continuing nature highlights the complexity of the case, bringing together various law enforcement entities to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and determine the full extent of the events leading to the tragic outcome.

FAQ

FAQ about the Newberry Incident

What charges has David Ray Clark faced?

David Ray Clark has been charged with murder, two counts of kidnapping, armed robbery, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, possession of a firearm by a person convicted of certain crimes, and unlawfully placing a child at risk of harm.

What happened in the incident on September 5, 2025?

The incident involved a shooting and kidnapping at the College Park Apartments in Newberry, where police discovered a victim deceased from a gunshot wound and two others kidnapped.

Were the kidnapped victims safe after the incident?

Yes, the woman and child were located and returned to Newberry safely; however, their specific condition post-rescue was not disclosed.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature Details
Suspect David Ray Clark, 53, from Chapin
Victim Dexter Tobias Gary Sr., 53, from Pomaria
Charges Murder, two counts of kidnapping, armed robbery, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, possession of a firearm, unlawfully placing a child at risk of harm
Incident Date September 5, 2025
Location College Park Apartments, Newberry
Current Status Arrested and booked at Newberry County Detention Center, denied bond

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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Additional Resources

Chapin Man Charged with Murder and Kidnapping in Newberry

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