Martinsville Homicide Update: Victim Identified as James Baldwin Jr.; Vehicle of Interest Recovered as Investigation Progresses
MARTINSVILLE, VA — Authorities have made progress in the ongoing homicide investigation involving the death of a man found fatally shot along Lee’s Ridge Road. The Martinsville Police Department confirmed on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, that the vehicle of interest in the case has been located. While no arrests have been made, several individuals are currently being interviewed, and the investigation remains active and urgent.
Discovery of the Victim
The investigation began on Tuesday, April 29, when deputies from the Henry County Sheriff’s Office responded to a distressing report: a deceased man lying on the shoulder of the 500 block of Lee’s Ridge Road. Upon arrival, authorities discovered the body of a man who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. The scene immediately prompted a full-scale criminal investigation, as evidence pointed to foul play.
The victim was later identified as 34-year-old James Baldwin Jr., a resident of Stultz Road in Martinsville. The Medical Examiner’s Office in Roanoke is currently conducting a forensic examination to determine the exact cause and manner of death. Initial assessments suggest Baldwin was shot multiple times before his body was left along the roadside.
Crime Scene Tied to Nearby Residence
The trail quickly led investigators to a property located at 1145 Ridge Road, where police believe the homicide occurred. A search warrant was obtained and executed by members of both the Henry County Sheriff’s Office and the Martinsville Police Department. Inside the residence, law enforcement officials reportedly uncovered substantial evidence indicating that Baldwin was killed within the home before his body was moved.
Officials have not yet disclosed what specific evidence was recovered during the search, citing the sensitivity of the ongoing investigation. However, they confirmed that the results of the search were critical in piecing together the timeline of events and identifying individuals of interest.
Vehicle of Interest Located
In a significant development, the vehicle of interest connected to the homicide has been found. Authorities have not yet released the vehicle’s make, model, or where it was recovered, but its discovery is expected to aid in both establishing a clearer timeline and potentially linking suspects to the crime scene.
This breakthrough follows multiple public appeals for information, and investigators have expressed appreciation for the tips and cooperation received from community members thus far.
Community on Edge, Police Seek Information
The violent nature of Baldwin’s death has left the Martinsville community shaken, particularly given the brutality of the crime and the implication that the body was deliberately discarded. Police are actively questioning multiple individuals of interest, but have not yet released their names due to the preliminary stage of the investigation.
Authorities continue to urge anyone who may have seen suspicious activity near Lee’s Ridge Road or 1145 Ridge Road on Tuesday to come forward.
Contact Information for Tips
The Martinsville Police Department is leading the investigation with continued assistance from the Henry County Sheriff’s Office. Individuals with relevant information are strongly encouraged to contact Detective Steven Rogers at:
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📞 (276) 403-5331
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📞 (276) 638-8751
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📞 Crime Stoppers Anonymous Tip Line: (276) 63CRIME / (276) 632-7463
Tips leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward. Authorities emphasize that no piece of information is too small and that public cooperation is essential in solving this homicide.
Conclusion
As the investigation into the tragic killing of James Baldwin Jr. continues, law enforcement remains focused on gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and bringing those responsible to justice. The discovery of the vehicle of interest marks a pivotal step forward, but many questions remain unanswered. The Martinsville Police Department and Henry County Sheriff’s Office are determined to deliver justice — and are asking the community to remain vigilant and engaged.