The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has identified the victim of a fatal shooting in the Ruch area on Thursday. Meanwhile, the search for the suspect continues.

Jason Marc Kinney, 53, of Jacksonville died shortly before 2:30 a.m. Thursday in the shooting, which occurred in the 14000 block of Upper Applegate Road, according to sheriff’s office spokesman Aaron Lewis.

A suspect identified as Michael Wayne Ray, 64, remains wanted in connection with the shooting.

Lewis provided little additional information surrounding the circumstances, saying sheriff’s detectives were still investigating as of Friday afternoon.

When asked about Ray’s connection to the shooting victim, Lewis only said that “they were known to each other.”

Lewis said deputies using dogs and drones are still searching for Ray. On Thursday, authorities found his vehicle abandoned near the Applegate Dam, not far from the scene of the shooting.

Extra patrols are also being added, Lewis said.

The sheriff’s office is asking anyone who may have information about the case or Ray’s whereabouts to call 541-776-7206 and reference case No. 23-2239.

Ray is considered armed and dangerous. The sheriff’s office advises anyone who spots Ray not to approach, and to call 911.

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Reach reporter Nick Morgan at 541-474-3806 or nmorgan@thedailycourier.com.