MADISON HEIGHTS, VA — What began as a dirt bike sale arranged through Facebook Marketplace ended in gunfire and arrests on Saturday, June 28, 2025, in Amherst County. The Amherst County Sheriff’s Office has identified the suspects involved in the attempted robbery and shooting as Zion Morgan, 18, and an unnamed juvenile male. Both are now in custody following a violent confrontation that left one man hospitalized.
Robbery During Marketplace Meetup
At approximately 3:26 p.m., deputies responded to reports of a shooting in the Madison Heights area. The victim, who had listed a dirt bike for sale on Facebook Marketplace, arranged to meet with potential buyers. During the transaction, Zion Morgan allegedly fled the scene on the dirt bike without paying, stealing the vehicle and leaving the seller behind.
The victim later spotted Morgan and the juvenile suspect in the Kings Road area and attempted to confront them about the theft. During that confrontation, the juvenile suspect pulled out a firearm and shot the victim in the abdomen.
Emergency Response and Victim Condition
Emergency medical crews responded swiftly, stabilizing the victim at the scene before transporting him to Lynchburg General Hospital. The victim, whose name has not yet been publicly released, suffered serious injuries but is expected to recover.
Arrest of Zion Morgan and Juvenile Suspect
An immediate investigation was launched by the Amherst County Sheriff’s Office. Within hours, both Zion Morgan and the juvenile suspect were identified. Around 6:34 p.m., the two individuals voluntarily met with investigators and were taken into custody without incident.
- Zion Morgan, of Madison Heights, has been charged with Robbery and is currently being held at the Amherst County Adult Detention Center.
- The juvenile suspect, whose name is being withheld due to his age, faces the following charges:
- Malicious Wounding
- Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony
- Robbery
He is being held at the Lynchburg Juvenile Detention Center.
Sheriff’s Statement and Ongoing Investigation
Sheriff Jimmy Ayers issued a public statement thanking the law enforcement and emergency teams for their rapid and effective response:
“This could have easily turned into an even more tragic situation. Thanks to the quick action of our deputies, emergency personnel, and support from the Lynchburg Police Department, we were able to secure both suspects in a timely manner and ensure public safety.”
The investigation remains active. Authorities continue to follow leads and are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
How to Share Information
Members of the public with relevant details are encouraged to contact the Amherst County Sheriff’s Office via:
- Non-Emergency Line: (434) 946-9300
- Crime Stoppers Website: www.cvcrimestoppers.org
- Online Tip Submission: http://p3tips.com
- P3 App: Available on mobile devices
This incident underscores the risks of peer-to-peer transactions and the potential dangers of online marketplaces when precautions aren’t taken. Authorities urge anyone conducting such transactions to meet in designated safe exchange zones, such as police department parking lots, whenever possible.
Address: 115 Taylor Street • P.O. Box 410 • Amherst, Virginia 24521
The Amherst County Sheriff’s Office will continue releasing updates as the investigation progresses.
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