43-year-old Khaleel Latwain Rodgers of Ringgold Virginia was indicted by a Danville Grand Jury for First Degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony for the killing of 50-year-old Clarence James Martin Jr on November 17, 2021. Mr. Rodgers turned himself in and was arrested on these charges on January 13, 2021.
Previous Press Release
The Danville Police Department has charged 43-year-old Khaleel Latwain Rodgers with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in violation of VA Code 18.2-308.2, as the investigation into last nights deadly shooting on Rocklawn Avenue continues.
Khaleel Latwain Rodgers was the unnamed individual from the initial release who arrived at SOVAH Health Danville’s Emergency Room suffering from a gunshot wound as well. He is still receiving medical treatment at a hospital facility for his injuries. To ensure the safety of everyone involved we will not be releasing any location information on Mr. Rodgers.
The hospital providing care as well as the local law enforcement agencies have been made aware of the felony warrants obtained against Mr. Rodgers and we anticipate he will be transported back to Danville when his condition allows.
The Danville Police Department will be hosting a H.E.A.R.T. Heal and Engage After Recent Trauma on Rocklawn Avenue today at 4:00 PM. H.E.A.R.T. walks are a collaborative effort where the Danville Police Department partners with Danville-Pittsylvania County Community Services mental health experts to engage the local community after a traumatic event. The teams provide updates on the crime and suspect information, and ensure any questions and concerns are addressed. All efforts will be made to reduce fear and anxiety for the neighborhood after this traumatic event, including offering the services of the trained behavioral health staff involved in the walk or follow-up if needed.
**A police department representative will be available at 3:30PM on Rocklawn Avenue to answer questions from the media**
Previous Release November 17, 2021:
Shortly after 6:30 PM this evening, the Danville Police Department responded to multiple 911 calls for shots being fired in the Rocklawn Avenue area. Responding officers located 50-year-old Danville resident, Clarence James Martin Jr, in front of a residence in the 100 block of Rocklawn Avenue suffering from what appeared to be a gunshot wound. Mr. Martin was transported to SOVAH Medical Center where he was later pronounced dead.
Based on evidence at the scene, the Danville Police Department immediately began a homicide investigation.
Shortly after discovering Mr. Martin on Rocklawn Avenue, a 43-year-old male, with a Ringgold address, arrived at the SOVAH Medical Center Emergency Room suffering from gunshot wounds. The second victim was transported by helicopter for further medical treatment in serious condition.
Based on the initial investigation, these two men were shot at the same location on Rocklawn Ave. The Danville Police Department does not believe this was a random act and are not looking for any further suspects at this time. This is still an active and ongoing investigation.
The crime scene is still being processed and the neighborhood canvassed throughout the evening by police personnel.
The victim’s body will be transported to the Medical Examiner’s office in Roanoke for an autopsy.
Residents of Rocklawn Avenue community and the surrounding areas who may have surveillance cameras of any type are asked to please contact the Danville Police Department through any of the platforms listed below.
Additionally, anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact the Danville Police Department through any available platforms to include calling patrol at 799-6510, investigations at 799-6508, calling 911, contacting Crime stoppers at 434-793-0000, through social media or use our crime tips app CARE at https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=818#. Information leading to an arrest and conviction in this case will be eligible for a cash reward.