Spotsylvania Deputies Make Second Arrest In August Shooting Case

SPOTSYLVANIA COUNTY, VA — A second suspect was arrested this week in connection with the Aug. 12 murder of 18-year-old James M. Wallin. On Oct. 2, Spotsylvania County deputies arrested William G. McDowney, 39, of King George, on charges of possession of a firearm by a convicted violent felon and grand larceny of a firearm, among others.

According to police, deputies were on routine patrol in the area of Germanna Point Drive Aug. 12 when they heard gunfire and screaming near the area of Matti Hill Court. Upon arrival, deputies found Wallin in a front yard suffering from gunshot wounds. Deputies immediately attempted live-saving measures, but were unsuccessful and Wallin was pronounced dead at the scene.

Shortly after the shooting, deputies arrested 32-year-old Augustus A. Rhodes and charged him with aggravated malicious wounding and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.

According to a the sheriff's report, preliminary investigation concluded Rhodes and McDowney arrived in the 9900 block of Matti Hill Court at approximately 8:40 p.m. Rhodes, who was reported as the vehicle's driver, exited the silver sedan and assaulted Wallin, which led to an exchange of gunfire between the two men. Rhodes also sustained gunshot wounds during the conflict, police said.

McDowney proceeded to help Rhodes back into the vehicle before traveling to a local hospital, police said. Rhodes and the sedan were later found at Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center, located less than a mile from the crime scene.

McDowney is facing two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted violent felon, grand larceny of a firearm, possession of a firearm after being involuntarily admitted and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. He currently is being held without bond at the Rappahannock Regional Jail.

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