Investigators Probe Possible Homicide After Perry County Man Found Shot

Ryan Huff was found dead of a gunshot wound at the Bubby/Buddy Combs Apartments on Darfork/Darkfork Road, and Perry County deputies are treating the March 3 discovery as a "possible homicide," the Perry County Sheriff’s Office said. Authorities opened an active investigation after responding to the apartment building near 15 Darfork Road.

Perry County Sheriff Joe Engle said deputies were called at approximately 10 a.m. to an altercation at the Bubby Combs apartment building near 15 Darfork Road; when deputies arrived one man was found with a gunshot wound to his chest area, WYMT reported. LEX18 posted an initial report and updated its story, noting the item was last updated March 3 at 10:45 p.m.

The sheriff’s office issued an arrest warrant for 43-year-old Danny Harold Asher, known as "Blue," in connection with the shooting, LEX18 and N’ Cuffs reported. PCSO advised the public that Asher should be considered armed and dangerous. LEX18 encouraged anyone with information on Asher's whereabouts to contact police; N’ Cuffs’ video description likewise asked that anyone with information call 911.

FOX56, republished by Yahoo, reported a later development: Asher was located in Leslie County and was arrested and charged with murder after the warrant was issued. That report also said the sheriff’s office secured two additional arrest warrants, on Friday, for 49-year-old Brian Smith, who faces a murder charge, and 37-year-old Maranda Connor, who faces a hindering apprehension charge.

The Perry County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the probe remains active: "This is an active and ongoing investigation by PCSO. Additional arrests and charges are possible for others not named and those currently named at this time," the office wrote, according to the Yahoo/FOX56 republished account.

Neighbors and local institutions felt immediate effects during the search. Resident Donnie Napier said he "heard what sounded like loud arguing coming from outside his window," WYMT reported. Perry County Schools put R.W. Combs Elementary on a short lockdown during Tuesday’s search, the district told WYMT.

Investigators have not released forensic results or a motive, and WYMT reported they do not yet know if alcohol or drugs were involved. Media updates included a N’ Cuffs YouTube item posted March 4 reiterating PCSO details and asking the public to call 911 with tips. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information, including tips about Asher's last known address in the Bonnyman community, to contact the Perry County Sheriff’s Office as investigators pursue leads.