BREAKING: Webb aide found dead of gunshot wound

The young man who ran Senator Jim Webb’s office in the southwest part of the state was found dead this morning:

Authorities in Botetourt County this morning discovered the body of a well-known Democratic operative and U.S. Senate aide along U.S. 220, dead from an apparent gunshot wound.

The body of Frederick W. Hutchins Jr., 26, of Roanoke was found shortly after 7 a.m. along southbound U.S. 220 by a Botetourt County deputy who had stopped to check on a vehicle parked on the highway’s shoulder, according to the sheriff’s office.

Also reporting the story is WDBJ7 in Roanoke. The Senator issued the following statement:

I am terribly saddened by the tragic and sudden death of Fred Hutchins, who diligently managed our Roanoke Senate office. Freddie was one of the most honorable and friendly individuals I have had the pleasure of knowing. He was a mainstay in the Roanoke community and a friend to all who knew him. My condolences go out to his mother, Karen, and the rest of his family and friends. He will be greatly missed.

7 Comments

  1. Posted Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at 5:17 pm | Permalink

    indescribably sad

  2. silence dogood
    Posted Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at 5:24 pm | Permalink

    My grandparents lived near him and knew him. Heartbreaking.

  3. Newport News Dem
    Posted Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at 6:15 pm | Permalink

    I knew Freddie and he was just as kind and nice as anyone on this planet. Just a plain all around nice guy.

    A very sad day, very sad indeed.

  4. proudvadem
    Posted Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at 6:46 pm | Permalink

    He sounded like a great guy.
    My thoughts are prayers are will his family, friends and co-workers.

  5. proudvadem
    Posted Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at 6:46 pm | Permalink

    *thoughts and prayers

  6. Adisa Muse
    Posted Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at 6:59 pm | Permalink

    Fred stands out as a remarkable young talent. Thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and those he touched.

  7. Anon E. Mouse
    Posted Wednesday, July 30, 2008 at 7:17 am | Permalink

    At first glance, it looks like suicide. Tragic.