LCSO Charges 2 Men In Killing Of Winchester Man

STERLING, VA — Two men are in custody and charged in connection with the July 8 killing of a 24-year-old Winchester man in the Sterling area, the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office said Wednesday.

The suspects, Gavin C. Collins, 21, of Sterling and Joshua M. Hunter, 22, of Woodbridge were both charged with first degree murder, conspiracy to commit robbery, and two counts of using a firearm while in the commission of a felony. Collins is also charged with possession of a schedule I narcotic, felon in possession of a firearm and a probation violation in Prince William County.

During the early morning hours of July 8, the victim, Jose I. Escobar Menendez, agreed to meet Collins in the area of Emerald Point Terrace. Both Collins and Hunter showed up, the sheriff's office said.

During the encounter, a dispute occurred and the victim was shot and killed when Collins and Hunter allegedly attempted to rob him. Both Collins and Hunter left the area, taking the victim's car, according to the LCSO.

Menendez was later located dead in the roadway along Emerald Point Terrace near Winding Road around 3:30 a.m. on July 8. During its investigation, the LCSO found the victim’s vehicle in Prince William County and a third suspect, Handy N. Colindrez, 24, of no fixed address, was arrested as part of the investigation. Colindrez has been charged with auto theft.

The LCSO said it is still investigating the case and additional charges are possible. All three suspects are being held at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center without bond.