Heidi Childs, 18, and David Metzler, 19
The bodies of Virginia Tech students David Lee Metzler, 19, and Heidi Lynn Childs, 18, were discovered Thursday morning at the Caldwell Fields Campground, located off of US 460. The pair were shot to death. Metzler’s body was found inside his 1992 Toyota, while Childs’ was found outside. Their murder occurred sometime between Wednesday evening and Thursday morning. The campsite is a popular destination for Virginia Tech students, and the apparent random nature of the crime has police worried. Montgomery County Sheriff Tommy Whitt said: “We are going to step up our patrols in that area even though we think it was a random act of brutal violence.” Sheriff Whitt described the double-murder as “brutal and ugly,” and added: “We feel like possibly an intruder came in and subsequently both of the persons are now deceased.” Though police are searching for several persons of interest who were seen in the area, they have given no details or descriptions of the individuals. Both Metzler and Childs were sophomores. Childs’ father is a Virginia State Trooper. On Thursday, Col. Steven Flaherty issued the following statement: “Tonight, the Virginia State Police grieves with Sgt. Donald Childs and his family during this deeply difficult and painful time. I extend my most heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to his loved ones, along with all members of his state police family.” Of course, Virginia Tech is still recovering from the 2007 campus shooting spree, which left 32 students and faculty dead, as well as from the horrific beheading of a student earlier this year. In a message sent to students, faculty, and staff, Tech President Charles Steger said: “Once again, this community is visited by senseless violence and tragedy upon aspiring young minds from our campus.” Anyone with information on this crime is urged to contact the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office at 540-382-2951. ?
? ? ?
Comments
If her dad was a State P, seems hardly random. Those guys put their life on the line everyday and should be given tremendous respect! Unfortunately we have allowed drugs and the rich people that run the businesses to become a terrible blight on society so when the police try to do their job, people get offended, become vendictive and these kinds of tragedies happen. We need to get serious as a nation on crime. We need to take back America from the low lifes that are destroying the country! And that is not the little guy, it is the rich and powerful that bankroll this cesspool!
This is truly a tragedy that has come at a time of debate over guns in national parks. Although this is a national forest, I am sure that this incident will be used to further someone's agenda, when the true horror of two innocents being brutally executed will be lost in propaganda. Unfortunately, this kind of senseless crime is so random that it is hard to defend against, but I have come up with a few ways to help keep yourself safe while visiting our nation's parks and forests. To find out more, check out Columbia's Backpacking Examiner.
These two looked to be very much in love. Why some retard had to do this is beyond comprehension. I am sorry they were not carrying maybe they could have protected themselves. When they find the psychopathic killer they should place them in a car and allow the friends and family of the murdered to shoot them to death.
two words: gun control
Gun control? Oh great so criminals will still have guns and normal people will have no protection. What an idiot. I carry and if some scumbag accosts me or my family I will take care of the scumbag myself. As for the rich bankrolling the crime wave you must be a proud obamabot huh Paul? Get a life and vote for a politician who advocates harsh criminal prosecution for violent offender and the 2nd amendment you little sissy!
My heart and prayers go out to the families and loved ones of these innocent victims.
Since the tragedy of Meredith Hope Emerson: Blood Mtn GA; Hiker, I have been researching and monitoring National Forest related abductions and Homicides, strategies and procedures, of Law Enforcement etc.
Due to the lack of adequate LE, the vast National Forests have become safe havens for drug dealers and for drug cartels in some instances, as well as attracting Sex Offenders, violent felons, and other undesirables.
Heidi and David's tragic incident may be unrelated but should be considered.
Vigilance, judgement, instincts & awareness, as well as safety in numbers, are advised when visiting these once safe & tranquil wonders of nature..
Wolfscratch
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!