BLACKSBURG, Va. – UPDATE
The two individuals who were found dead inside of a vehicle at a parking garage in Blacksburg Tuesday evening have been identified.
They were both students at Blacksburg High School, according to the Blacksburg Police Department.
Bernard Bragen, the superintendent for Montgomery County Public Schools, told 10 News that the high school is offering extensive supportive services for staff and students. In an email sent out to parents, Bragen provided resources for students who need help addressing grief and for parents helping teens with grief.
Blacksburg Police will not be releasing their names in accordance with their policy to not identify juveniles.
Next-of-kin has been notified, authorities said.
“The Blacksburg Police Department and the Town of Blacksburg are working with Montgomery County Public Schools to ensure that any services MCPS staff or students may need are available,” Blacksburg Police said.
The full email sent out to parents and/or guardians regarding this incident can be found below:
Dear MCPS Community:
It is with deep regret and sadness that we inform you about a recent loss to our Blacksburg school community. On November 7, 2023, a teacher workday for Montgomery County Public Schools, two of our students suddenly lost their lives. This loss is sure to raise many emotions, concerns, and questions for our entire school, especially our students.
We have counselors available for any student who may need or want help or any type of assistance surrounding this loss. We encourage you, as parents, to also feel free to use our resources.
We have linked some information that may be useful to you in helping your child at home:
• Addressing Grief - https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-climate-safety-and-crisis/mental-health-resources/addressing-grief?fbclid=IwAR1TEJVvEDjJ1d8WZ6OLfLdl8NBNCjUQ1IEQR1w9l6QFLyhU4orUKwSMQX8
• Helping Teens with Grief - http://www.nctsn.org/sites/default/files/assets/pdfs/helping_teens_with_traumatic_grief_caregivers_final.pdf
If you would like additional information or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact your school principal. We are saddened by the loss to our school community and will make every effort to help you and your child as you need.
Superintendent Bernard F. Bragen, Jr.
Stay with 10 News as this breaking news story develops
ORIGINAL ARTICLE
The Blacksburg Police Department is investigating after they say two bodies were found inside a vehicle at a parking garage in Blacksburg Tuesday evening.
Police said officers responded to the parking garage located at 723 University City Blvd. at 4:42 p.m. in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
When officers arrived on the scene, they discovered two bodies, as well as a weapon, in the vehicle, according to authorities.
Police said at this time, the incident appears to be isolated with no ongoing threat to the community.
The names of the individuals have not been released.
BPD said this is an ongoing investigation and anyone with information is encouraged to call the Blacksburg Police Department Crime Tip Line at 540-961-1819 or email at bpdtipline@blacksburg.gov.