Tragedy Strikes in Aiken as Veterinarian Charged with Husband’s Murder

Tragedy Strikes in Aiken as Veterinarian Charged with Husband’s Murder

Aiken, South Carolina, is reeling from a shocking incident that has left its community in disbelief. A local veterinarian, Dr. Jennifer Ray, has been charged with the murder of her husband, Greg Baughman, following a domestic shooting that occurred at their home on Sunday evening.

A Disturbing Scene

According to authorities, the incident unfolded around 5 p.m. on Sunday at the couple’s residence on Prides Crossing. Sadly, the situation ended with Greg Baughman, just 43 years old, being pronounced dead at the scene by Aiken County Coroner Darryl Ables.

Dr. Ray, aged 44, has been taken into custody at the Aiken County Detention Center and is facing serious charges, including murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. Her murder warrant alleges that she shot him multiple times in the back and additionally while he was lying on the floor.

A Troubled Relationship

The couple, who were well-known faces in the community as the owners of Hitchcock Animal Hospital, reportedly had a history of domestic disputes. Friends have revealed that Greg had filed for divorce and was living separately at the time of his tragic death. What brought him back to their home sparks questions that linger in the minds of those following this case.

Veterinary Partners

Dr. Ray and Greg had spent years building a life together, combining their talents in both veterinary medicine and business management. After years of experience, including Dr. Ray’s 14 years as a veterinarian and Greg’s extensive background with over 20 years of management experience with UPS and the Marine Corps, they decided to put their skills to work in their very own veterinary practice.

The couple’s commitment to their dream saw them transforming a building into a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital, which was all set to open in June 2020. It appeared to be a bright future ahead for both of them as they worked on this ambitious project together.

In Memory of Greg Baughman

Friends and acquaintances of Greg have expressed their shock at the tragic turn of events. Known as an active Marine reservist, he had proudly served his country with two deployments to Iraq and two to Afghanistan. Many remembered him fondly, highlighting his membership with the USMC Reserve Marksmanship Team and his dedication to fitness and community service.

The details of the shooting remain murky, and as the investigation continues, friends of the couple describe a once-promising life that has been overshadowed by unexpected violence. There are still no clear answers about what led to the horrific incident, leaving a community that once rallied around them bewildered and saddened.

A Community in Shock

As Aiken absorbs the news of this domestic tragedy, the community is left grappling with the emotions that come after such shocking occurrences. Those who knew the couple are coming to terms with the violent end of a partnership once centered around love and shared ambition.

The implications of this tragic shooting resonate deeply, reminding us that even the most seemingly perfect lives can hide conflicts that, if left unchecked, may lead to devastating consequences. For now, the case remains under investigation, and the community awaits answers as it navigates through this heartbreaking chapter.