Rodney Lucas, 45, of Wendell, was found shot to death outside of a home in the 800 block of W. Barbee Street near Zebulon, according to the Wake County Sheriff's Office. The incident happened around 3 a.m. at what neighbors say was a party.
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Mark Ray, 45, was arrested in connection with the shooting on Monday morning.
Ray made a court appearance on Monday afternoon. he did not say anything in court other than confirming his name while being formally arraigned on a murder charge.
Ray is a convicted felon who has "previous convictions for firearms," Wake County Assistant District Attorney Mark Stevens said during the first appearance.
The sheriff's office says the property is a commercial business site with several trailers and buildings. One of the buildings was rented to host a private party. Shortly after the party, there was an altercation that led to the shooting.
Police were called to the scene after reports of gunshots in the area.
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People who live nearby were surprised the business park became a crime scene.
"I feel sorry for anyone found lying in a ditch or laying on the ground somewhere as if they're a dog or something," said resident Larry Mayo. "That's not fair. That's not right. I hate that for anyone"
Ray is being held at the Wake County Detention Center without bond.