Timothy Hickerson, 43, was arrested in Florida last week during a routine traffic stop for running a red light. He had recently become a prime suspect in the 2010 murder of Shane Donahue in Nokesville, Virginia, and a warrant had been issued for his arrest. The arrest was captured on police bodycam footage, showing Hickerson being ordered out of his vehicle by officers with the Flagler County Sheriff’s Department after running the red light.
Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly commented on the arrest, stating that there is no such thing as a simple traffic stop, as it led to the apprehension of a fugitive wanted for a murder that occurred over 14 years ago. Staly emphasized that fugitives will be caught regardless of where they flee to and will be brought to justice. Donahue had gone missing in March 2010 after last being seen leaving his parents’ home in Nokesville, Virginia. The case had initially gone cold, but it was reopened by investigators after new evidence linking Hickerson to the victim was discovered.
Virginia investigators uncovered information that Hickerson and Donahue were seen together leaving the victim’s parents’ residence and returning to Donahue’s nearby home before his disappearance. Further investigation revealed that Hickerson was involved in a burglary at Donahue’s residence shortly before he vanished. Despite Donahue’s remains not being located, authorities in Virginia have presumed him dead. Hickerson, a longtime resident of Palm Coast, Florida, will be held in the Flagler County Jail until he can be extradited to Virginia to face charges for second-degree murder and burglary.
The video of Hickerson’s arrest shows him looking shocked as officers inform him that he is not just being ticketed for running the red light, but is instead being arrested on outstanding warrants for a serious crime. The Flagler County Sheriff emphasized the importance of law enforcement’s commitment to pursuing fugitives and ensuring that they are brought to justice. Hickerson’s arrest highlights the reality that fugitives will be pursued and apprehended, regardless of the amount of time that has passed since the crime they are accused of committing.
The case of Shane Donahue’s murder remained unsolved for over a decade until the recent development pointing to Hickerson as the prime suspect. The renewed investigation and subsequent arrest of Hickerson demonstrate the dedication of law enforcement to solving cold cases and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their crimes. The connection between Hickerson and Donahue, as well as the evidence linking him to the burglary at the victim’s residence, played a crucial role in bringing about his arrest and potential prosecution in Virginia. The resolution of this long-standing case serves as a reminder of the tireless efforts of law enforcement to seek justice for victims and their families.
