Fluvanna County Sheriff's Office Media Release - Update to Ridge Road Homicide Investigation

February 18, 2026

The Fluvanna County Sheriff’s Office is announcing a significant update in the homicide investigation stemming from a fatal shooting that occurred on Ridge Road during the early morning hours of August 20, 2023.

At approximately 3:00 a.m., deputies responded to a residence on Ridge Road for a report of an injured individual. Upon arrival, deputies, along with personnel from Fluvanna County Fire and Rescue, located 43-year-old Johnnie Antoine Brown suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Life-saving measures were immediately initiated; however, Mr. Brown was pronounced deceased at the scene. The case has remained an active and ongoing investigation conducted by the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Section.
Following the presentation of evidence to a Special Grand Jury in Fluvanna County Circuit Court, indictments were issued on February 17, 2026, by the Fluvanna County Circuit Court for the arrest of Maurice Lecroy Brown. Brown was indicted on the following charges:

• Second Degree Murder (Virginia Code § 18.2-32)
• Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony (Virginia Code § 18.2-53.1)

On February 18, 2026, Maurice Lecroy Brown was taken into custody at his residence without incident. He was transported to the Central Virginia Regional Jail, where he was booked and is currently being held without bond.

The Sheriff’s Office extends its appreciation to the Fluvanna County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and assisting partner agencies for their continued collaboration throughout this investigation. The Sheriff’s Office remains committed to pursuing justice in this case and ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.
Anyone with information related to this investigation is encouraged to contact the Fluvanna County Sheriff’s Office and speak with the Criminal Investigations Section. Tips may also be provided confidentially through Crime Stoppers at 434-977-4000.

No additional releases are expected regarding this case. 

Major David R. Wells Fluvanna County Sheriff’s Office
Sheriff Eric B. Hess Hess