FLOYD, Va. (WFXR) – On Tuesday, January 21, Virginia State Police announced indictments and a pending arrest in the 21-year-old cold investigation for the homicide of Richard Palmer that occurred in 2003.
VSP said the Floyd County Commonwealth’s Attorney, Eric Branscom has received true bills for indictments submitted this week for a person believed to be connected to the death of Richard “Dickie” Palmer.
“After 21 years, it is incredibly satisfying to provide answers to the Palmer family in the brutal murder of Dickie” said Senior Special Agent Douglas R. Hubert, (VSP, BCI-GIS Salem). “Special thanks for the diligent efforts of the Virginia State Police to develop the evidence necessary in this case to proceed with charges. Special Agent Hubert and Special Agent Cromer completed the investigation started so many years ago by the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation,” said Eric Branscom.
The case goes back to April 22, 2003, when the remains of Richard “Dickie” Palmer and his dog, a red Australian Heeler named Rufus, were found in his Chevrolet pickup truck on 12th 1/2 Street SW in Perry Park in Roanoke.
During the initial investigation, it was determined that Palmer’s body was taken to that location in Roanoke after being killed and blood was found at Palmer’s home in Floyd County the following day. The investigation was then handed over to Virginia State Police, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation, and the Salem Field Office.
The Virginia State Police said the investigation is still ongoing and there is no further danger to the public due to the suspect’s incarceration. An arrest is pending and the suspect will be named in the near future.
Check back with WFXR News for more information soon.
The agencies involved in the investigation include the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Virginia State Police Unsolved Violent Crimes and Cold Case Analytical Support Team, Office of the Attorney General Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) grant, the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office, The City of Roanoke Police Department and Texas Department of Public Safety Texas Ranger Division.