MARTINSVILLE, VA — The Martinsville Police Department has announced significant developments in the ongoing homicide investigation following the discovery of a man who was fatally shot along Lee’s Ridge Road earlier this week. The victim has been formally identified as James Baldwin Jr., a 34-year-old resident of Martinsville. Authorities also confirmed that a vehicle of interest connected to the case has been located and recovered, bringing renewed momentum to the investigation.

Victim Found with Gunshot Wounds

On the morning of [insert date], emergency dispatchers received a call reporting a man lying unresponsive along the 800 block of Lee’s Ridge Road. Upon arrival, first responders and law enforcement officials found the victim, later identified as Baldwin, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite efforts from emergency personnel, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Initial observations suggested that Baldwin may have been shot elsewhere and left at the location where he was found. Residents in the quiet suburban neighborhood reported hearing what they believed to be gunshots late the previous evening, but no calls were made to authorities at the time.

Victim Identified as James Baldwin Jr.

On [insert date], the Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the identity of the victim as James Baldwin Jr., following an autopsy and formal identification procedures. Baldwin was known to local authorities and had a history of minor run-ins with the law, but family members described him as “a devoted father and brother who had turned his life around.”

In a public statement, Baldwin’s mother, Carol Baldwin, expressed grief over the loss of her son. “James was working hard to build a better life. He didn’t deserve this,” she said. “We want justice, and we want answers.”

Vehicle of Interest Located

As part of their investigation, detectives issued a public alert for information related to a dark-colored sedan seen in the area around the time of the shooting. Thanks to community tips and surveillance footage gathered from nearby homes and businesses, the vehicle—described as a black 2012 Toyota Camry—was located on Thursday evening.

The car was found abandoned on a secluded property off Route 220, just outside the city limits. Forensic teams have since impounded the vehicle and are currently processing it for evidence, including possible fingerprints, DNA, and ballistic residue.

“We are optimistic that the recovery of this vehicle will provide us with critical leads,” said Martinsville Police Chief G. E. Cassady. “We are pursuing all angles, and we’re grateful to the community for coming forward with helpful information.”

Investigation Remains Active

Police have not named any suspects at this time, but sources close to the investigation confirm that several persons of interest are being questioned. Detectives are also examining Baldwin’s recent communications and movements to piece together a timeline leading up to his death.

Investigators are urging anyone who may have seen or heard suspicious activity in the Lee’s Ridge Road area on the night of the shooting to come forward.

“This remains a very active and sensitive case,” Chief Cassady noted. “We’re asking the public to remain patient and vigilant. Even the smallest detail could help us solve this crime.”

Community Reaction

The homicide has shaken the tight-knit Martinsville community, where violent crimes of this nature are relatively rare. Residents held a candlelight vigil in Baldwin’s memory on Friday night, where friends and family gathered to honor his life and demand justice.

City officials echoed the sentiments of loss and resilience. “This tragedy has touched many lives,” said Councilwoman Renee Chambers. “We stand with the Baldwin family and support the Martinsville Police Department in their pursuit of justice.”

How to Help

Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact the Martinsville Police Department at [insert phone number] or call Crime Stoppers at [insert Crime Stoppers contact info]. Tipsters may remain anonymous and could be eligible for a cash reward.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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