2 homicide victims identified whose bodies were found in a burning vehicle in Sumter

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The identities of the two bodies found in a burning vehicle on March 23 on Foxville Road have been released. Both were killed before the Monday morning vehicle fire.

The male victim, Janio Lopes, 36, of Eastover, died from blunt-force trauma to the head, and the female victim, Rachel Ravenell, 44, of Dalzell, died from a single apparent gunshot wound to the head, according to Sumter County Coroner Robbie Baker. 

Their families have been notified.

Deputy Adrienne Sarvis, public information officer for the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, said it is unknown if the homicides took place where the bodies were found or somewhere else. 

The Sumter County Sheriff's Office is working with Richland County Sheriff's Office, the Sumter County Coroner’s Office and SLED to investigate the homicides and arson, according to Sarvis.

Anyone with information is asked to call Sumter County Sheriff's Office at (803) 436-2000 or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC. Tips can also be submitted electronically by going to www.p3tips.com.