RICHMOND COUNTY, N.C. — A Richmond County man is charged with murder after authorities said he killed a man behind a home near a school.
Investigators with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office said someone reported suspicious activity at a home on Mary Wall Road around 11:30 a.m. Monday.
When deputies responded, they said they found blood and signs of a struggle in the backyard. The home is across from Ashley Chapel Educational Center.
Investigators then found Derick Ratliff’s body near the trees behind the home. Family members say the 22-year-old went by the nickname Scooter. Family members were too upset to talk on-camera with Channel 9.
Investigators are not saying how Ratliff died or discussing a possible a motive. They are waiting on autopsy results.
Investigators arrested and charged Barnes with first-degree murder Tuesday. Investigators said he knew Ratliff.
The violent crime came as a shock to neighbors.
“It’s surprising. The neighborhood is nice and quiet,” John Harrington said.
The slaying is still under investigation as Barnes sits in jail with no bail set.
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