The serene community of Vienna, West Virginia, was thrust into grief and disbelief following a tragic shooting incident that claimed the life of 22-year-old Morgan Lee Lott (Stutler) on Saturday, July 20, 2024. The Vienna Police Department responded to a distressing call at 4:24 p.m., reporting an unresponsive individual at 1202 19th Street, Apartment 6. Upon arrival, officers discovered the lifeless body of Ms. Lott, who had succumbed to an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was found by a family member who immediately alerted the authorities, initiating an intense and comprehensive investigation.
Morgan Lee Lott’s untimely death left her family, friends, and the entire community in a state of shock and mourning. Known for her vibrant personality and kind-hearted nature, Morgan had touched many lives, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she encountered. Her sudden and violent demise has left a void that is deeply felt by all who knew her.
Initial Response and Investigation
The Vienna Police Department, upon securing the scene, launched an extensive investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. The crime scene was meticulously processed, with detectives working through the night to gather vital evidence and follow leads that could shed light on the perpetrator’s identity and motive.
In the initial stages of the investigation, the police focused on collecting physical evidence from the scene, interviewing potential witnesses, and reviewing any available surveillance footage from the vicinity. These efforts were crucial in piecing together the sequence of events that led to the fatal shooting.
Identification of the Suspect
As the investigation progressed, detectives were able to identify Hearl Thomas Collins as a suspect in the case. The identification of Collins marked a significant breakthrough, providing the police with a clear direction in their pursuit of justice for Morgan Lee Lott. The collaboration between Vienna Police and Parkersburg Detectives played a pivotal role in this development, as both departments pooled their resources and expertise to expedite the investigation.
With the suspect identified, the next critical phase involved locating and apprehending Collins. This task required a coordinated effort among multiple law enforcement agencies to ensure a swift and safe arrest.
Apprehension of Hearl Thomas Collins
The Vienna Police Department, in collaboration with the United States Marshals Office and the West Virginia State Police (WVSP), launched an intensive manhunt to locate Hearl Thomas Collins. Their efforts bore fruit as they successfully tracked Collins to a residence in Stonewood, Harrison County, WV. Early on the morning of July 21, 2024, Harrison County SWAT units executed an arrest warrant, apprehending Collins without incident.
The arrest of Collins was a testament to the diligent and coordinated efforts of various law enforcement agencies. The collaborative approach underscored the importance of inter-agency cooperation in resolving serious criminal cases efficiently and effectively.
Community and Law Enforcement Response
The swift resolution of the case was met with relief and gratitude by the Vienna community and law enforcement alike. The Vienna Police Department extended their heartfelt thanks to the partner agencies that played a crucial role in the investigation and apprehension of the suspect. Agencies such as the Parkersburg Police Department, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wood County Prosecutor’s Office provided invaluable support, demonstrating a unified front in the pursuit of justice.
The tragic death of Morgan Lee Lott has had a profound impact on the Vienna community. Residents, friends, and family members have come together to support one another during this difficult time. Vigils, memorials, and community gatherings have been organized to honor Morgan’s memory and provide solace to those grieving her loss.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings
With Hearl Thomas Collins now in custody, the legal proceedings and further investigation into the circumstances surrounding Morgan Lee Lott’s death are underway. Collins has been charged with First-Degree Murder, and the Vienna Police Department, along with the Wood County Prosecutor’s Office, is committed to ensuring that justice is served.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement authorities have urged anyone with additional information related to the case to come forward. Public cooperation remains crucial in piecing together all aspects of the incident and strengthening the case against the accused.
Legacy of Morgan Lee Lott
Morgan Lee Lott, affectionately known as Morgan Stutler, leaves behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and a zest for life. Her family, friends, and the entire Vienna community are united in their grief, but also in their determination to remember and honor the beautiful person Morgan was. Her obituary, which will be released by her family, will undoubtedly reflect the love and admiration she garnered throughout her life.
Morgan’s death is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the impact of senseless violence on individuals and communities. It underscores the critical need for ongoing efforts to address and mitigate violent crime, ensuring that such tragedies become less frequent in our society.
As the community of Vienna navigates the aftermath of this devastating event, the collective hope is for healing, justice, and the preservation of Morgan’s memory in a way that continues to inspire kindness and unity among those who knew and loved her.
In the coming days, weeks, and months, the Vienna community will likely see a series of initiatives and memorials dedicated to Morgan’s memory. These efforts aim not only to honor her life but also to foster a sense of resilience and solidarity in the face of tragedy. The legacy of Morgan Lee Lott will live on in the hearts of her loved ones and the community she touched, serving as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the profound impact one person can have on the lives of many.
