Marty Gordon
A bouquet of flowers and a small candle sit near an empty parking area at Caldwell Fields just outside of Blacksburg. As Virginia Tech begins classes, not many of the new students know the story of the unsolved murders of two former students.
Seventeen years ago, a man walking his dog found the bodies of David Metzler and Heidi Childs, who had been shot by an unknown assailant or assailants. The couple had gone to the popular area of the Jefferson National Forest to talk and listen to music.
The site was a small car trip to the Giles County line and was – and still is – popular to visit by college students.
The small memorial has continued over the years as even local residents have forgotten what happened on Aug. 26, 2009. Both students were sophomores at Virginia Tech and were originally from Lynchburg.
Investigators confirmed Metzler was shot through a driver’s-side window of his Toyota Camry. Childs was gunned down immediately after she ran from the car.
Police continue to study the incident, and last year, the Virginia State Police issued a statement, which has been the only update in several years.
Sgt. Rick Garletts said despite its age, the case has remained an active investigation.
“Local, state, and federal law enforcement officials are encouraged by the information that is still being provided by the public and continue to follow up on all relevant leads pertaining to this case,” he said.
The facts are there, but a true suspect is not.
Investigators say the couple were sitting in a small parking area to the right of the park. The shooting took place between 8:25 p.m. and 10 p.m.
David’s guitar, which he had brought along to play that night, was still in the car; but some of Heidi’s things were missing.
The 18-year-old female’s purse was missing, along with a camera, credit card, phone and Virginia Tech ID card. The murder weapon has been determined to be a 30/30 rifle.
There was DNA found under Childs’ fingernails, but investigators have not been able to link it to any suspect.
Over the years, there have been people of interest. Investigators have not said if that group has been eliminated or is still on the table in the case. They do believe it’s highly likely that someone observed the suspect on Craigs Creek Road that night. Again, there is hope someone still might remember something from that night.
Local, state and federal investigators say they hope a new state police cold case website and a $100,000 reward will generate renewed interest and more information about the two Virginia Tech students. Those who are interested in learning more about Metzler, Childs, and the investigation are encouraged to visit www.coldcase.vsp.virginia.gov.
