A South Carolina man already in custody for allegedly keeping four people captive in his basement has been charged with murder. Donnie Ray Birchfield Jr, 35, faces additional charges including the murder of 49-year-old Shirley Arnsdorff and first-degree criminal sexual conduct.
The investigation began on 25 July when police responded to a death report at a home in Lancaster. Officers found Arnsdorff unresponsive on the floor; she was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities allege Birchfield kept four people in his basement, including Arnsdorff, her husband, and two other women.
A police warrant reportedly alleges victims were denied food and medical care, abused, and cut off from the outside world. Authorities also allege Birchfield used their bank cards. The warrants do not specify how Birchfield knew the victims but suggest the two other women had romantic relationships with him.
Birchfield was arrested on 1 August and initially charged with false imprisonment, exploitation of a vulnerable adult, domestic violence, neglect, financial card theft, and identity fraud. The murder and sexual conduct charges were added later. Police said evidence from the ongoing investigation led to the new charges.
Birchfield's lawyer stated he maintains his innocence and looks forward to litigating the case in court. Birchfield is held without bond at Lancaster County Detention Center. Police Chief Don Roper called the case 'heartbreaking' and said the department is dedicated to achieving justice for the victim and her family.
