UPDATE NEWS RELEASE: December 19, 2025
Lynchburg, VA – The victim in last night’s homicide has been identified as David L. Vaughter Jr., 52, of Lynchburg.
The initial investigation revealed the incident stemmed from an altercation at a residence in the 1400 blk of Campbell Ave. An argument ensued which ultimately resulted in Mr. Vaughter being shot.
The suspect in this incident has been identified as John Levi Snead, 63, of Lynchburg. Snead has been charged with the following offenses:
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Second Degree Murder
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Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony
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Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
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Brandishing a Firearm
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Reckless Handling of a Firearm
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Discharging a Firearm within the City
A photo of Snead is attached. His last reported location was in the area of the 800 blk of Garland St. Anyone who may know Snead’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Lynchburg Police Department.
The investigation remains active and ongoing. Additional details will be released as they become available.
The Lynchburg Police Department is asking anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area of the 1400 block of Campbell Avenue this evening, or who may have video surveillance or doorbell camera footage that may assist the investigation, to contact Detective Heinemann with the Lynchburg Police Department at (434) 455-6174 or Crime Stoppers at (888) 798-5900. Enter an anonymous tip online at http://p3tips.com or use the P3 app on a mobile device.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 18, 2025
LPD Investigating Homicide on Campbell Avenue
Lynchburg, VA – The Lynchburg Police Department is investigating a homicide that occurred this evening in the 1400 block of Campbell Avenue.
At approximately 7:39 p.m., officers responded to a report of a malicious wounding. Upon arrival, officers located an adult male suffering from an injury consistent with a gunshot wound. Officers immediately rendered aid until emergency medical personnel arrived.
The victim was transported to Lynchburg General Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.
Detectives are actively investigating this incident. The investigation and search for a suspect remains ongoing.
The Lynchburg Police Department is asking anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area of the 1400 block of Campbell Avenue this evening, or who may have video surveillance or doorbell camera footage that may assist the investigation, to contact Detective Heinemann with the Lynchburg Police Department at (434) 455-6174 or Crime Stoppers at (888) 798-5900. Enter an anonymous tip online at http://p3tips.com or use the P3 app on a mobile device.