Suspect Arrested in Murder of Israel Calloway; Gunfire Erupts During Capture in Prince Edward County

Suspect Arrested in Murder of Israel Calloway; Gunfire Erupts During Capture in Prince Edward County

ROANOKE, VA – Virginia State Police have confirmed the arrest of 24-year-old Rayjaun A. Calloway, the man accused in the murder of 55-year-old Israel Calloway, a killing that took place on June 28, 2025, in Roanoke. The arrest was made the following day, on June 29, after an intense search that spanned multiple jurisdictions and ended with a dangerous encounter in Prince Edward County.

According to authorities, Rayjaun Calloway was apprehended at approximately 12:45 p.m. in the vicinity of Route 490 and Sulphur Spring Road, just outside Farmville. His capture was not without risk — during the attempt to detain him, Calloway allegedly opened fire on a Farmville Police officer. Fortunately, the officer was not injured in the exchange.

Murder in Roanoke

Details surrounding the June 28 homicide remain under investigation, but authorities have identified the victim, Israel Calloway, as the suspect’s 55-year-old relative, raising the possibility of a domestic dispute turned deadly. The nature of their relationship has not yet been confirmed publicly, but the shared surname has drawn attention to the personal dynamics that may have contributed to the violence.

Investigators responded to the Roanoke crime scene late Saturday, where Israel Calloway was found deceased. The cause of death has not yet been released, though it has been confirmed to be a homicide.

Manhunt and Arrest

Following the killing, a regional search for Rayjaun Calloway was launched involving multiple law enforcement agencies. His whereabouts were unknown until he was spotted by a Farmville Police officer during routine patrol in Prince Edward County. When approached, Calloway reportedly fired at the officer, triggering an armed confrontation that could have ended in tragedy.

Despite the danger, law enforcement was able to safely take Calloway into custody. It is currently unknown whether he was injured during the apprehension. He has since been turned over to Virginia State Police and is being held pending formal charges related to the homicide, as well as the alleged attempted shooting of a police officer.

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities have not disclosed a motive behind the murder, nor have they confirmed whether additional individuals are being questioned in connection with the crime. Forensic teams are working both the Roanoke crime scene and the arrest site in Prince Edward County to collect evidence.

“This was a rapidly unfolding and dangerous situation,” said a Virginia State Police spokesperson. “We’re grateful no officers or civilians were hurt during the arrest, and we will now focus on securing justice for Israel Calloway and his loved ones.”

Community Reaction

The Roanoke community, already reeling from the initial news of the murder, has been further shaken by the violent circumstances surrounding the suspect’s arrest. Many are calling for answers — not only about what led to the homicide, but also how such violence escalated into a public shootout.

Counseling resources have been made available to the officer involved in the shooting, as well as to the family of the victim.

How You Can Help

Anyone with information about the events leading up to the murder of Israel Calloway, or about Rayjaun A. Calloway’s whereabouts or behavior prior to his arrest, is encouraged to contact Virginia State Police or local law enforcement agencies. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers.