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Uber Driver Killed in Carjacking, Suspect Charged

MONTGOMERY, Texas – A Montgomery County Uber driver, 57-year-old Samuel “Sam” Ray of Conroe, has tragically died after being shot during an attempted carjacking early Sunday morning, sparking an intense investigation that has led to one arrest and an ongoing manhunt for a second suspect.

Ray, a beloved father of three, succumbed to his injuries on Monday, May 20, 2024, after the violent incident in Montgomery. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) has since charged 19-year-old Keion Ta’shon James with Capital Murder in connection with Ray’s death.

The fatal encounter unfolded in the pre-dawn hours of Sunday, May 19. According to the MCSO, Ray had picked up two individuals and driven them to the 15400 block of Country Club Drive in Montgomery. During what law enforcement describes as an attempted carjacking, Ray was shot by one of the suspects. The assailants then fled the scene in Ray’s vehicle, a 2017 grey Toyota Camry.

Ray was initially transported to HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was later moved to a critical care facility in Houston, where he passed away the following day.

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office quickly launched a comprehensive investigation. Utilizing witness statements, forensic evidence, and tracking information related to the stolen vehicle, authorities identified and located a primary suspect. By Wednesday, May 22, investigators had tracked Keion Ta’shon James to Houston, where he was arrested without incident. James has been formally charged with Capital Murder and is currently being held without bond at the Montgomery County Jail.

However, the search for a second male suspect continues. Authorities describe him as being between 17 and 20 years old and consider him armed and dangerous. The MCSO has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any information that could lead to his apprehension.

Samuel Ray is being remembered by his family and the community as a dedicated and loving parent. His daughter, Christina Ray, initiated a GoFundMe page shortly after the incident to help cover funeral costs and provide support for the family during this difficult time. The campaign has seen an overwhelming outpouring of community support, quickly raising over $30,000, significantly exceeding its initial goal.

“My dad, Sam Ray, was an Uber driver who was senselessly murdered by a passenger he was driving,” Christina Ray wrote on the GoFundMe page, reflecting the family’s profound grief and desire for justice. “He was a loving father of three children… He was a hard worker who always provided for his family, and he didn’t deserve this.”

The incident has highlighted concerns among ride-share drivers and the community about safety. The investigation remains active and ongoing.

Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the second suspect or the circumstances surrounding the incident to contact the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office at 936-760-5800. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Multi-County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-392-STOP (7867). Please reference case #24A143926 when providing information.

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