On November 19, 2020, Winchester Police Chief John Piper held a press conference, alongside Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Heather Hovermale, in the Community Room of the Timbrook Public Safety Center to announce indictments in the homicide of Lorenzo Coles Wheeler.
On June 30, 2020, at 10:38 p.m., the Winchester Police Department (WPD) responded to the 300 block of N. Kent St. for a male laying in the roadway. When officers arrived on scene, they found Mr. Wheeler, 30, of Winchester, in the roadway near his rental vehicle, a 2019 Hyundai passenger car. He was suffering from a gunshot wound to his torso. Mr. Wheeler was transported to the Winchester Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his wounds.
A comprehensive investigation began on the night of Mr. Wheeler’s death and has continued to be a priority over the past four months. Chief Piper recognized the Criminal Investigations Division, specifically Detective Ivins, for their tireless efforts that included dozens of interviews, search warrants, and thousands of man hours developing evidence and leads. The team worked closely with the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney while maintaining contact with Mr. Wheeler’s family throughout the investigation.
On November 19, 2020, a Multi-jurisdictional Special Grand Jury convened in the Circuit Court of the City of Winchester and indicted Adam Marcus Griffin, 35, of Winchester for the following:
• First degree murder, a violation of Virginia Code 18.2-32
• Use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, a violation of Virginia Code 18.2-53.1
• Convicted felon in possession of firearm, a violation of Virginia Code 18.2-308.2