Virginia Murder Suspect Captured in Augusta Hotel After Dramatic Escape Attempt
A multi-agency law enforcement operation in Augusta, Georgia led to the capture of a Virginia murder suspect on Friday afternoon. The suspect, identified as Prince Moore, 41, was wanted in connection with the fatal shooting of 22-year-old Tyron R. Clanton in Petersburg, Virginia. Authorities located Moore hiding at the Travelodge Hotel, situated at 3039 Washington Road in Augusta, where the dramatic arrest unfolded shortly after 3:30 p.m.
Location and Circumstances of the Arrest
According to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and members of the U.S. Marshals Service coordinated to track down and apprehend Moore, who had been on the run for several days following a deadly shooting in Virginia. At approximately 3:36 p.m. on Friday, officers converged on the hotel after receiving intelligence that Moore was using a false name to check into a second-floor room.
As law enforcement approached, Moore reportedly realized he had been discovered. In a desperate attempt to flee, he jumped from the second-floor window of the hotel. Witnesses described hearing a loud thud as the suspect landed on the pavement below. Despite the fall, Moore tried to continue his escape on foot, but he was swiftly surrounded and detained by pursuing officers within moments.
Authorities said Moore sustained minor injuries from the fall but was treated at the scene before being taken into custody without further incident. Following the arrest, the area around the Travelodge was briefly secured while officers searched the suspect’s room for evidence.
Victims and Crime Details
The murder case that led to Moore’s capture stems from the shooting death of Tyron R. Clanton, a 22-year-old resident of Petersburg, Virginia, who was found fatally wounded near a gas station earlier this year. Investigators in Virginia reported that the incident occurred after an altercation escalated into gunfire. Clanton, who had been shot multiple times, was pronounced dead at the scene before emergency responders could transport him to a nearby hospital.
Family and friends described Tyron Clanton as a bright, hardworking young man with dreams of pursuing a career in business. He was known in his community for his kindness and ambition. Clanton’s family, devastated by his loss, had been calling for justice since the shooting occurred. The news of Moore’s arrest has reportedly brought them a measure of relief after months of uncertainty.
Law Enforcement Response
Officials confirmed that Moore will face extradition proceedings to return to Virginia, where he will be formally charged with first-degree murder and related firearm offenses. Richmond County Sheriff’s Office representatives commended the cooperation between local authorities and federal agencies in bringing the fugitive to justice.
Sheriff’s deputies noted that the U.S. Marshals Service played a crucial role in tracking Moore’s movements across state lines, ultimately leading to the discovery of his location in Augusta. The operation was described as “precise and well-coordinated,” ensuring the safety of both the officers and the public during the high-risk arrest.
Community Impact
The dramatic capture of Prince Moore has drawn attention in both Augusta and Petersburg, underscoring the collaboration between regional law enforcement agencies. Residents at the Travelodge expressed shock at the commotion, saying they were unaware a murder suspect was hiding among them.
Authorities have not disclosed how long Moore had been staying at the hotel or whether anyone had been assisting him while evading capture. Investigators continue to examine possible connections in both states.
For the family of Tyron R. Clanton, Moore’s arrest marks a critical step toward justice. While the loss remains immeasurable, the swift and coordinated actions of law enforcement have ensured that the man accused of taking Clanton’s life will now face the judicial process.
As the investigation proceeds, both communities await further developments in a case that has spanned state lines and tested the dedication of multiple law enforcement agencies.
