Gary Howard, 68, of Sanford, North Carolina, was shot to death just after 1 a.m. on April 6, 2017, in the 1000 block of Boykin Avenue. He was struck in the chest, taken to Central Carolina Hospital, and later died of his injuries. No arrests have been made and the shooter remains unidentified.

Known as Sleepy, Howard was the firstborn of James Snowball and Carrie Lily McKoy Howard, who predeceased him. He enjoyed watching old westerns, playing cards, and shooting pool. His family and friends remember him as a caring son, big brother, and great friend; his death has left a lasting void in the community.

Does anyone in Sanford have information about that early-morning shooting or remember seeing anything in the Boykin Avenue area around April 6, 2017?