Crime & Safety
Man Charged with Abduction; Alexis Tiara Murphy Still Missing
Missing teen's mother makes tearful plea for her daughter's safe return.
The arrest of Randolph Taylor in connection with the disappearance of Virginia teen Alexis Tiara Murphy was called "a significant step in the investigation" by Anthony Martin, Commonwealth's Attorney, during an 11:30 a.m. press conference. Taylor, 48, is from Lovingston, Va.
Taylor is awaiting an advisement hearing about his legal rights to an attorney, and that has not yet been scheduled, Martin said. He said law enforcement would "not answer questions at this time" -- in order to protect the integrity of the investigation.
"The search for Alexis continues and we continue to ask the public's help in providing information," Martin said.
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Investigators are asking specifically for information about Randy Taylor, especially prior to August 3 or since. "Time is of the essence in this type of case encompassing a large search area and difficult terrain," FBI Richmond Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Mazanec said.
Law enforcement are also looking for information about a late model GMC suburban-like truck, allegedly belonging to Taylor.
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"I know there is some speculation about whether this case is connected to other disappearances, abductions in the region," Mazanec said. "We continue to look at all possibilities," he said.
Alexis' mother, Laura Ann Murphy, said today would have been Alexis first day at school. "Please, if anybody knows anything, please let us know. Please," she said in tears.
"We continue to ask the public for tips, particularly if you have any information about Randolph Taylor," Mazanec said. Any information at all on Alexis or Randy Taylor -- no matter how seemingly small or insignificant -- should be called to the Nelson County Sheriff's Office at 434-263-7050.
Fredericksburg Patch is covering this story due to the area's proximity to the Charlottesville area, where Alexis' car was found three days after her August 3 disappearance. We will continue to update the story as information is available.
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