14-year-old in Highland County charged with killing 76-year-old woman

HIGHLAND COUNTY, Va. – A 14-year-old Highland County boy is now charged with first-degree murder in the shooting death of a 76-year-old woman.

The teen, who is not being named due to his age, is charged with killing Maryland resident Ruth Ann Knave. He is also charged with the use of a firearm in commission of a felony as well as two counts of credit card theft. 

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Deputies were conducting a welfare check September 17 at a home on Doe Hill Rd. in the McDowell community when they discovered Knave's body. Her car was missing, according to state police. 

Further investigation led state police to Richmond International Airport, where they found the car in the parking lot. The teen was arrested that night and is being held at a juvenile detention facility.  

A medical examiner in Roanoke will perform an autopsy. 

The Roanoke Commonwealth’s Attorney has been appointed as a special prosecutor for the case.