Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: WEDNESDAY, February 16, 1994 TAG: 9402160130
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: B1 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: KATHY LOAN STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: CHRISTIANSBURG LENGTH: Medium
Marcus D. Williamson, 21, faced nine felony charges after a Nov. 16 pursuit by police that wound through Montgomery and Roanoke counties.
Williamson is accused of abducting two Christiansburg men before seizing a taxi in Blacksburg. He also was charged with maliciously wounding one of the men and a Christiansburg officer whose police cruiser was struck by the taxi; three counts of using a firearm to commit a felony; and one charge of possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony.
Judge Ray Grubbs dismissed one abduction and two firearms charges Tuesday.
Darryl Scott Barker testified that Williamson - whom he knew from high school - came to his house and asked for a ride to the Walton community. Barker said when he refused, Williamson pulled out a pistol and threatened him and his dog.
Barker said he and his roommate, Kelley W. Collins, agreed to take Williamson anywhere he wanted if he would put the gun away. About 50 yards from the house, however, Barker said he heard the gun go off and realized he had been shot.
Collins ran back toward the house, but Williamson told Barker to drive on, according to testimony. Barker refused, telling Williamson that he needed to go to the hospital. Williamson walked off.
Dewey Moore, a 73-year-old taxi driver, testified he picked up Williamson a short time later. As they drove into Blacksburg, Williamson agreed to pay Moore in advance. But, Moore testified, instead of pulling out his wallet, Williamson pulled a gun.
The gun went off and Moore jumped from the taxi, according to testimony.
by CNB