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.
VIVIAN J. PAIGE | All Politics is Local 
indescribably sad
My grandparents lived near him and knew him. Heartbreaking.
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.
He sounded like a great guy.
My thoughts are prayers are will his family, friends and co-workers.
*thoughts and prayers
Fred stands out as a remarkable young talent. Thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and those he touched.
At first glance, it looks like suicide. Tragic.