Fatal Shooting in Callaway: Brandon A. Holland, 30, Killed; Suspect Antonio Maurice Payne in Custody Facing Second-Degree Murder Charges
Callaway, Virginia – December 8, 2024
A quiet community in Franklin County was shaken in the early hours of Saturday morning, December 7, 2024, when a tragic shooting claimed the life of Brandon A. Holland, a 30-year-old resident of Callaway. The suspect, identified as Antonio Maurice Payne, 37, of Lebanon, Virginia, was apprehended hours later in Montgomery County and now faces charges of Second-Degree Murder and Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony.
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, which occurred at a residence on Moe Lane. This tragic event has left unanswered questions about what led to the fatal encounter and the relationship between the victim and the suspect.
Timeline of Events
4:30 a.m.: The Emergency Call
Law enforcement received an urgent 911 call reporting a shooting at a private residence on Moe Lane in Callaway. According to the caller, a man had been shot and was unresponsive. The dispatch alerted Franklin County deputies, who immediately responded to the scene.
Discovery of Brandon A. Holland’s Body
Upon arrival, deputies discovered the lifeless body of Brandon A. Holland. He had suffered a fatal gunshot wound, and emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene. The victim, a lifelong resident of Callaway, was well-known in the local community. Friends and family described him as a kind-hearted individual who loved the outdoors and valued close relationships with loved ones.
The Investigation and Arrest
Identifying the Suspect
Initial investigative efforts, including witness interviews and evidence collection, quickly led authorities to identify Antonio Maurice Payne as the suspect in the shooting. Payne, originally from Lebanon, Virginia, has a prior criminal record, though details of his previous offenses have not yet been disclosed by law enforcement.
Apprehension of the Suspect
By mid-morning on December 7, authorities located and arrested Payne in neighboring Montgomery County, approximately 30 miles away from the scene of the crime. The arrest was conducted without incident. Sheriff’s deputies credited the swift apprehension to close coordination between local law enforcement agencies and cooperation from the public. Payne was transported to the Franklin County Jail, where he is being held without bond.
Ongoing Investigation
Law enforcement officials are actively working to piece together the events leading up to the fatal shooting. At this time, the relationship between Payne and Holland remains unclear, and authorities have not disclosed whether the shooting was premeditated or occurred in the heat of the moment.
Sheriff’s investigators are also analyzing forensic evidence collected at the scene, including the firearm believed to have been used in the shooting. Additionally, they are interviewing potential witnesses who were present at or near the residence when the incident occurred.
Victim Profile: Remembering Brandon A. Holland
Brandon A. Holland, 30, was a cherished member of the Callaway community. A graduate of Franklin County High School, Holland was described by friends as a compassionate and hardworking individual with a passion for nature. He enjoyed fishing, hiking, and spending time with his family.
Brandon’s cousin, Melissa Holland, shared her grief during an interview:
“Brandon was more than a cousin to me; he was like a brother. He had a heart of gold and always knew how to make people smile. Losing him this way is unbearable.”
Local residents have already begun organizing a candlelight vigil in Brandon’s honor, scheduled for later this week. The outpouring of support from the community reflects the impact Brandon had on those around him.
Suspect Profile: Who is Antonio Maurice Payne?
Antonio Maurice Payne, 37, hails from Lebanon, Virginia, a small town in Russell County. While details about his background remain sparse, court records reveal a history of legal troubles, including minor offenses and a previous charge related to possession of a firearm.
Community members and law enforcement are now questioning what could have led Payne to allegedly take such a drastic and violent action. Franklin County Sheriff’s Office has not yet commented on whether Payne and Holland had any known disputes or prior encounters.
Legal Proceedings
Payne faces charges of:
- Second-Degree Murder: Defined as an intentional killing without premeditation. If convicted, Payne could face significant prison time.
- Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony: A charge that carries additional mandatory sentencing upon conviction.
He is expected to appear for his initial hearing in Franklin County Circuit Court on Monday, December 9, 2024. Prosecutors have indicated their intent to argue for the maximum penalties allowed under Virginia law.
Community Reaction
The small, tight-knit community of Callaway has been left in shock. Residents expressed both grief over the loss of Brandon Holland and concern about the rising frequency of violent incidents. Many are using social media to share memories of Brandon, while also calling for justice in his case.
Local pastor Reverend James Carter spoke about the tragedy during Sunday morning services:
“This is a moment of immense sorrow for our community. We must come together, not only to mourn the loss of Brandon but to support his family and demand accountability for this senseless act of violence.”
Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Statement
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office issued a statement extending their condolences to Brandon Holland’s family and friends:
“We are deeply saddened by the events that occurred on Moe Lane. Our hearts go out to the Holland family during this difficult time. We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation and ensuring that justice is served.”
The department has urged anyone with information about the case to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in solving crimes and ensuring public safety.
Call to Action: Public Assistance Needed
As the investigation continues, law enforcement is seeking additional information to clarify the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Anyone with knowledge of the incident is encouraged to contact the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at 540-483-3000. Tips can be provided anonymously.
Looking Ahead
The death of Brandon A. Holland has left a void in the Callaway community, where friends and family are now grappling with unimaginable loss. As they prepare to honor Brandon’s life, the legal system will move forward in its effort to hold Antonio Payne accountable for his alleged actions.
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence and the importance of addressing its root causes. Local leaders and residents alike are calling for greater efforts to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office has pledged to provide further updates as new details emerge, ensuring transparency and justice for the Holland family.
