Wednesday, April 07, 2010

Shootings close Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia between mile markers 0-13

There's a manhunt going on along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia as police vehicles block the scenic roadway to visitors at a time when a number of local school systems are on spring break and the warm weather would normally draw many residents to local hiking trails.

Hikers to Humpback Rock were turned away at the Parkway south of Afton Mountain after a shooting Monday night injured an 18-year-old Fluvanna woman and 27-year-old Charlottesville man sitting at Rock Point Overlook watching the sunset at mile marker 10. The man reportedly was knocked backwards by a shotgun blast and fell 150 feet over the cliff where he was rescued in poor condition. Both victims are at University of Virginia Hospital.

In the surrounding area of the shootings, there's a fear in the air as hours drag by and no arrest has been announced. Police are looking for a white male with thin graying hair and medium build, believed to be driving a red or maroon vehicle, possibly a Taurus. He is thought to be armed with a shotgun and is considered extremely dangerous.

The Parkway between mile markers 0-13 remains closed Tuesday evening as authorities from the FBI, National Park Service, Virginia State Police, and Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive agency and deputies from Augusta and Albermarle counties continue searching for the gunman.

Anyone having any information or who may have witnessed something are asked to contact Central Shenandoah Crime Stoppers (1-800-332-2017) or the Augusta County Sheriff's Office (540-245-5333).

Cross-posted at The Washington Examiner

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