FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 11, 2024
Update: Homicide Investigation 1600 Block of Taylor Street
Lynchburg, VA – This is an update to the original news release (see below). The individual arrested during the disorderly incident on October 8, 2024, has been identified as Devon Clemente Thomas, 31, of Lynchburg. He has been in custody since that date and is facing the following charges related to the incident:
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Possession of Schedule I or II Controlled Substance
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Two Counts of Vandalism/Property Damage
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Served with an Outstanding Charge of Contempt of Court (Failure to Appear)
As of this morning, the Lynchburg Police Department (LPD) has obtained and served a warrant charging Mr. Thomas with second-degree murder in connection with the death of 65-year-old Clifford Carter.
Mr. Thomas is currently being held at the Blue Ridge Regional Jail with no bond.
The LPD extends its thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Mr. Carter during this tragic time. We also thank the community for their cooperation and assistance with the investigation.
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NEWS RELEASE: October 8, 2024
Homicide Investigation 1600 Block of Taylor Street
Lynchburg, VA — At approximately 6:50 AM today, the Lynchburg Police Department (LPD) received a report of a male lying behind a private fence on a sidewalk leading to a home in the 1600 block of Taylor Street. Upon arrival, officers conducted a welfare check and discovered 65-year-old Clifford Carter deceased from injuries consistent with a stab wound.
The LPD has launched an active homicide investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding Mr. Carter’s death.
Earlier this morning, at 4:44 AM, officers responded to a disorder call for service in the 1100 block of 16th Street. An individual reported that a male was causing property damage to their home. In that incident, the male was reported to be on foot and left the scene prior to officers arriving. At 5:22 AM, officers located the male in the 1300 block of Fillmore Street, where he was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant. The LPD is actively investigating whether this individual, now identified as a person of interest, is connected to Mr. Carter’s death.
While this is still an ongoing investigation, at this time, we are not seeking additional suspects in either incident.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Detective Gauthier at (434) 455-6230, or Crime Stoppers at (888) 798-5900. Enter an anonymous tip online at http://p3tips.com, use the P3 app on a mobile device, or text CVCS to 738477 to receive a link to our anonymous tip form. Msg frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text HELP for help and STOP to cancel. P3 Terms and Privacy Policy.
This is an ongoing investigation. Any additional information will be released as an update to this news release.
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