21-Year-Old Found Dead in a Well Outside Virginia Church, Was Missing For a Long Time

Virginia: The body of 21-year-old Graham Norris Horne was found at the bottom of a 50-foot-deep well near St. Stephen RZUA Church in rural Mecklenburg County, Virginia, weeks after he had been reported missing.

A Disturbing Discovery

The discovery came after parishioners alerted authorities to a foul odor in the area surrounding the church. First responders quickly arrived at the scene and recovered Horne’s body from the well on Monday, according to the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office. Following the recovery, the body was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of Virginia, where Horne was positively identified using fingerprints. His death is under investigation, and authorities have yet to reveal any further details about the cause of death.

Horne’s Last Known Movements

Horne was last seen on August 15, when he was traveling with Met by Love Ministries, a North Carolina-based faith group. The group had stopped at Simmons Truck Stop in Bracey, Virginia, to refuel. According to police, Horne became involved in an argument with members of the group, after which he stormed off on his own. Horne did not have a cell phone with him, and police have stated that he had no known connections to the local community in Virginia. The truck stop, located just over six miles from St. Stephen RZUA Church, is believed to be the last place anyone saw Horne alive before his disappearance. There is still uncertainty as to how he ended up at the church or in the well. Efforts are being made by local authorities to piece together the events that led to his death.

Investigation Continues

The Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding Horne’s death. While it remains unclear how or why Horne ended up at the church, the ongoing investigation seeks to uncover any clues that could explain the tragic situation. No official cause of death has been released, and police have not confirmed whether foul play is suspected. Met by Love Ministries, the faith group Horne was traveling with at the time of his disappearance, declined to comment when contacted by the press. Their brief statement reflected condolences for Horne’s family and loved ones but offered no additional insights into the events that led up to his departure from the group.

In a statement, the South Hill Volunteer Fire Department, which aided in the recovery of Horne’s body from the well, extended their sympathies. “Our hearts and prayers are with the family and friends affected during this difficult time,” the statement read. “We also ask that you keep our first responders in your thoughts and prayers as well.” As the investigation continues, authorities urge the public to remain patient as they gather more evidence regarding this tragic case.