Chapin, South Carolina, September 11, 2025
News Summary
David Ray Clark, a 53-year-old from Chapin, has been charged with murder and kidnapping following a violent crime spree that began on September 4. The incident involved a shooting at the College Park Apartment complex, resulting in the death of Dexter Tobias Gary Sr. Law enforcement quickly apprehended Clark after he forced a woman and child into a vehicle. The investigation is ongoing as authorities seek further information about the case and the condition of the victims.
Chapin, South Carolina – Multiple Charges Filed Against Local Man Following Violence
David Ray Clark, a 53-year-old resident of Chapin, South Carolina, has been charged with multiple serious offenses, including murder and kidnapping, after a violent crime spree that unfolded on the night of September 4, 2025.
Law enforcement authorities reported that Clark faces several charges stemming from an incident that began in the early hours of September 5 at the College Park Apartment complex in Newberry. The charges against him include:
- Murder
- Two counts of kidnapping
- Possession of a weapon during a violent crime
- Possession of a firearm by a person convicted of certain crimes
- Armed robbery
- Unlawfully placing a child at risk of harm
The sequence of events was triggered when police responded to multiple reports of a shooting and a kidnapping involving a woman and a child. Officers forcibly entered an apartment at the complex to discover the body of an adult male, identified as Dexter Tobias Gary Sr., 53, from nearby Pomaria. He was pronounced dead at the scene due to an apparent gunshot wound.
During the chaotic series of events, it is alleged that Clark forced the woman and the child into a vehicle against their will. The quick actions of the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department played a crucial role in locating both Clark and the victims in Chapin. Following his apprehension, Clark was returned to Newberry, where he is currently being held at the Newberry County Detention Center without bond.
At this point, specifics about the condition of the kidnapping victims remain undisclosed. Luckily, no additional injuries have been reported. However, the motive behind the shooting and Clark’s connection to the victims have yet to be clarified.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with agencies including the Newberry Police, the coroner’s office, the sheriff’s office, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division collaborating to uncover further details.
In light of the investigation, Newberry Police Chief Kevin Goodman has urged anyone who might have information pertaining to the homicide to come forward and assist through contact with the police or Crime Stoppers. As developments emerge, updates will be provided to ensure the public remains informed about this serious case.
Background Context
This incident has raised concerns within the community regarding public safety and the prevalence of violent crimes. Such events are typically rare in the area, which has maintained a relatively low crime rate historically. However, the crime spree highlights the need for vigilance and the importance of cooperation between law enforcement and the community in addressing these alarming incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges has David Ray Clark faced?
David Ray Clark has been charged with murder, two counts of kidnapping, armed robbery, and several weapons-related charges following a violent crime spree.
When did the incident occur?
The violent crime spree began on the night of September 4, 2025, and continued into the early morning hours of September 5.
What was the outcome for the kidnapping victims?
Information regarding the condition of the kidnapping victims has not been released at this time, but thankfully no additional injuries have been reported.
What is being done to investigate the shooting?
The investigation is ongoing, involving multiple law enforcement agencies, and officials have encouraged the community to provide information that could assist in resolving the case.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Subject | David Ray Clark, 53 |
| Charges | Murder, Kidnapping, Armed Robbery, etc. |
| Location | College Park Apartment Complex, Newberry, SC |
| Victim | Dexter Tobias Gary Sr., 53 |
| Incident Dates | September 4-5, 2025 |
| Current Status of Clark | Held without bond at Newberry County Detention Center |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
South Carolina Launches Digital School Safety Mapping Initiative
Standoff in West Columbia Ends with Surrender
Fatal Assault in Joanna, South Carolina
Additional Resources
- WIS TV: Man Accused of Killing Victim in Newberry Shooting
- Wikipedia: Criminal Law
- ABC Columbia: Man Charged with Kidnapping and Murder
- Google Search: David Ray Clark Newberry incident
- WLTX: Shooting on Interstate 26 Newberry County
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Murder
- The State: Local Crime Report
- Google News: Newberry SC crime
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
