Tragic Turn of Events in Aiken: Doctor Arrested in Deadly Shooting
AIKEN COUNTY, S.C. — An ordinary Sunday turned tragic when a respected local doctor found herself at the center of a devastating crime. Dr. Jennifer Kerri Ray, co-owner of the Hitchcock Animal Hospital, has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime following the deadly shooting of her husband, Greg Baughman. The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene on Prides Crossing, only to discover a scene that would leave the tranquil community in shock.
What Happened?
On that fateful evening, deputies arrived to find Dr. Ray emerging from the side of the house. She was quickly detained and placed in a patrol car as investigators began their work. Inside the home, they located 43-year-old Greg Baughman lying lifeless on the floor with multiple gunshot wounds. A black handgun was discovered on the kitchen counter, while several bullet casings lay scattered around the area. Tragically, Baughman was pronounced dead at the scene at 6:30 p.m., leaving behind friends, family, and colleagues grappling with the shock of such a gruesome turn of events.
A Familiar Face at the Animal Hospital
Dr. Ray and Baughman weren’t just partners in life—they ran the beloved Hitchcock Animal Hospital together, offering care to numerous furry companions in the Aiken area. But beneath the surface of their professional collaboration, a tumultuous personal relationship seems to have been brewing. Sources indicate this incident is part of a broader story that raises more questions than answers.
A Previous Incident Raises Concerns
Adding to the hospital’s troubled narrative, back in April 2024, there was another shooting incident outside the animal hospital that left one person injured. Fortunately, no arrests were made in that case, and authorities have not linked the two events publicly. One can’t help but wonder if there are deeper issues at play within the hospital’s walls—a tragic twist that leaves the community both fearful and confused.
Community Reaction
The outpouring of shock and sadness from the local community has been palpable in the days following the incident. On Monday, staff from the Hitchcock Animal Hospital took to social media with a heartfelt statement, expressing their grief and support during such a challenging time. The hospital has been a cornerstone of the Aiken community for years, providing care and support to countless pets and their owners. Now, people are left to ponder how the life of a highly respected vet turned into such a heartbreaking situation.
Moving Forward
As the investigation unfolds, many are left wondering what will happen next. Will Dr. Ray face justice, or is there more to this story that remains hidden from view? The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office will continue to gather evidence and conduct interviews to shed light on the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. Meanwhile, the community waits with bated breath for any updates, hoping for clarity in a situation that has rattled their quiet lives.
Conclusion
For now, the story of Dr. Jennifer Kerri Ray and Greg Baughman serves as a stark reminder that appearances can be deceiving. In a community known for its warmth and resilience, this shocking incident leaves many asking—how could this happen here? With each new piece of information, we inch closer to understanding the full scope of this tragedy, hoping that healing can begin for both the community and the lives forever changed by this unfortunate event.
