CHARLESTON, SC - The man found dead Sunday inside a Ford Excursion on Francis Street was awaiting trial on charges that he broke into a couple's West Ashley apartment in 2006 and shot them while they slept.

Anwaar Khalil Smith, 30, of North Charleston faced a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted of first-degree burglary and two counts each of assault and battery with intent to kill and possession of a weapon during a violent crime, according to court records.

Smith was accused of bursting into a couple's home at St. Andrews Gardens Apartments on Aug. 26, 2006, and shooting the sleeping man and woman inside.

He was arrested a month later at a hotel in Mississippi and returned to South Carolina to face charges. He eventually posted $150,000 bail as charges were pending, authorities said Monday.

Charleston police were trying to determine who killed Smith, but authorities released few details.

A neighbor noticed that the SUV had been parked for a while and called police Sunday morning. Officers found Smith's body inside, Public Information Officer Charles Francis said.

Charleston County Deputy Coroner Kelly Myers said Smith died of a gunshot wound but declined to say where on the body he was shot.

If you, or someone you know, have any information regarding any crime, you are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers. You could earn a reward up to $1,000.

Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 554-1111 or www.5541111.com. Texters can send anonymous tips to CRIMES (274637), and mark the beginning of the message with "TIPCSL".

If you, or someone you know, have any information regarding any crime, you are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers. You could earn a reward up to $1,000.

Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 554-1111, toll free at 1-888-CRIME-SC, or online at www.5541111.com. Texters can send anonymous tips to CRIMES (274637), and mark the beginning of the message with "TIPCSL". Text STOP to 274637 to cancel. Text HELP to 274637 for help. Msg&Data Rates May Apply.