HANOVER, Va. (WRIC) — A man has been arrested in connection to a June murder in Hanover County.
Police say 25-year-old Justin Valentino Mason has been arrested and charged with first degree murder and use of a firearm in connection with the June 27 murder of Craig Michael Bates.
Mason, a resident of Richmond, was charged in relation with the June 27 shooting death of 30-year-old Craig Michael Bates, which occurred in the 1500 block of Mickie Town Road. He has been charged with first degree murder and use or display of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
Authorities say the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office alerted the U.S. Marshals Service of a possible location to find Mason in the early morning hours of August 4. Marshals found and arrested Mason in Richmond without incident.
“I am proud of the efforts of our investigative team and the efforts of our law enforcement partners in the region including the U.S. Marshals Service for their efforts up to this point,” Colonel David R. Hines said. “Although an arrest has been made, we will continue to make sure all evidence is identified to ensure support of a successful prosecution.”
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office at (804) 365-6140 or the Metro Richmond Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000.
Mason is currently being held at Pamunkey Regional Jail without bond.
Stay with 8News for more on this developing story.
