Collinsville, VA Attorney News Archive

On March 7, a tense situation unfolded when Henry County deputies arrested two men for driving under the influence after a pursuit ended with a collision. The incident began at the Dutch Inn motel, where Stephen Jermaine Gravely, 44, of Martinsville, attempted to flee from law enforcement.

As deputies chased Gravely down Virginia Avenue, the pursuit became increasingly dangerous. It culminated in a crash near the Holiday Shopping Center. During the altercation, Colby Glenn Jackson, 23, from Ridgeway, struck a patrol car, leading to felony charges for both men.

This incident has raised alarm about impaired driving in Virginia. Both Gravely and Jackson now face serious civil litigation and must prepare for their criminal defense proceedings. They are currently held at the Henry County Adult Detention Center, a clear indication of the state's firm stance on addressing DUI offenses.

Elden Douglas Duncan, a 64-year-old from Collinsville, Virginia, has been arrested on multiple charges after allegedly using tire deflation devices on a roadway, which resulted in property damage to vehicles. The Henry County Sheriff's Office carried out a search warrant at Duncan's home on Murphy Road, uncovering evidence tied to his criminal activities, including ammunition and a makeshift explosive device.

In addition to the charges related to the illegal use of tire puncturing devices, Duncan could face significant consequences under Virginia’s real estate law due to potential damage claims filed by vehicle owners. This incident has prompted local officials to investigate further, including potential violations of wildlife laws. Notably, red-tailed hawk remains were discovered at his residence, indicating possible civil litigation stemming from these discoveries.

The Virginia State Police are now examining the explosive device as part of the ongoing criminal defense proceedings against Duncan.

In a major milestone for Henry County, officials proudly announced the completion of the first four homes in the Villa Heights neighborhood, addressing the urgent local housing crisis. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Jim Adams, chairman of the Henry County Board of Supervisors, highlighted the vital connection between stable housing and economic growth.

This housing project is a collaborative effort supported by local builders who are committed to using high-quality materials. The aim is to transform dilapidated properties into affordable homes, with prices ranging between $170,000 and $185,000. The sales of these homes are being managed by local real estate firm Havenmoore, under the leadership of Amy Guilliams, which is expected to boost community investment.

Vice Chair Joe Bryant reflected on the neighborhood's past vibrancy, expressing optimism for future developments. He linked this initiative to broader goals in business and real estate improvement throughout Virginia, emphasizing its potential to revitalize the region.

A devastating house fire in Henry County, Virginia, has left the community in shock as investigators work to identify a victim. The fire broke out on December 15th on Graceland Drive in Bassett. Fire Marshal Kiah Cooper reported that the remains have been sent to the Medical Examiner’s Office in Roanoke. To help with the identification, efforts are underway to collect a DNA sample from the victim's next of kin located in Sumpter County, Florida.

In the wake of this tragedy, several fire departments, including those from Bassett, Collinsville, and Patrick Henry, rushed to the scene. As families mourn and begin to navigate the aftermath, conversations about civil litigation are becoming increasingly important. The community is highlighting the necessity of understanding personal injury law and estate planning during such trying times.

The investigation is ongoing, with officials committed to providing closure for the victim's family as they face this heart-wrenching situation.

Henry County, Virginia, is gearing up for an important meeting at the county administration building to discuss a proposed funding package of $412,587. This financial boost will support the Villa Heights housing initiative, which aims to offer affordable housing options and improve the regional property market.

The funding, which comes from the West Piedmont Planning District and Virginia Housing, will be instrumental in constructing a new subdivision that will feature 13 homes, all priced to be accessible to buyers. Local officials, including members from the West Piedmont Planning District Commission, stress the importance of adhering to certain Wills and Estates criteria based on income levels for potential homeowners.

This initiative is a vital part of Virginia's ongoing housing efforts, showcasing a commitment to both real estate development and the welfare of the community in Henry County and surrounding areas.