Community continues to cope with death of two Wythe County murder victims

WYTHE COUNTY, Va. – The investigation into a capital murder case continues in Wythe County and more information is being learned about the two young men who were killed. Many people who live in the area say they're trying to understand what happened.

The sheriff's office still has more than 20 people working on this case, which is far from over. 

The sheriff said they are waiting to issue search warrants on a vehicle the victims were seen getting into before they were killed. They're also looking for some pieces of clothing.
     
A gun was recovered and was sent to the crime lab for testing. The Sheriff said a tip led them to Reed Creek Drive where Raymond Rodriquez and 17-year-old Aidan Dawson were found dead.
     
Dawson was a senior at George Wythe High School. The superintendent says there were counselors at several schools to help teachers, staff and students process the tragedy.

Court documents reveal arrest warrants for the three suspects were filed on the same day Aidan Dawson went missing. They're expected to be in court facing charges of capital murder and accessory after the fact in February.

"We knew the young man had been missing earlier in the week and so we worked with law-enforcement to provide with any information that we could for that. But we were notified yesterday of the death of  that young man. At this time, we want to extend our thoughts and prayers to families and friends associated with this," said Dr. Jeff Perry, Superintendent. 

The sheriff said the motive for the murders is possibly drug- related. 

Dr. Perry said Dawson was a football player at George Wythe but a knee injury prevented him from finishing the season. He says the teen was also involved in other extra-curricular activities.
    
As far as the suspects, all three were previous students of Fort Chiswell High School.