Red Bank Man, 20, Charged In Brutal Slaying Of David L. Murray

Joshua Stoltz Captured In Valdosta, Ga., With Victim's Truck

Friday, February 24, 2012
Joshua Stoltz
Joshua Stoltz

A 20-year-old Red Bank man has been charged in the brutal slaying of a Harrison businessman.

Joshua S. Stoltz of Berkley Drive was captured in Valdosta, Ga. Authorities said he had been driving a 2005 Ford truck belonging to victim David L. Murray.

Mr. Murray's body was discovered in the garage of his home at 6422 Ware Branch Cove on Dec. 6, 2011. An autopsy report says he was stabbed, cut and beaten and he died "of multiple injuries."

He had numerous cuts and bruises all over his body, especially on his face and mid portion. There was a large amount of blood at the scene.

Authorities said Stoltz had been working for the victim and on Dec. 4, 2011, he had told another person that "he had killed his boss" and that he had been injured himself during the slaying.

Stoltz was arrested at Valdosta on a number of felony theft charges. He was in the victim's truck when he was apprehended. Georgia law enforcement officers said he had injuries on him consistent with those he previously described.

Stoltz was charged with criminal homicide and theft over $10,000. He was returned to Hamilton County on Thursday. He is due to appear before General Sessions Court Judge David Bales on March 5.

David Murray, who is originally from Cleveland, Tn,  was a 1983 graduate of Bradley High School. He attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and was described as a self-made businessman and real estate entrepreneur.

His obituary says, "David's boundless generosity and kind spirit touched the lives of all he met in his much too short 46 years. He had a heart of gold and was forever giving help and shelter to any, whether a person down on their luck or an animal in need of rescue. The tragedy of losing David will be felt for years to come by all who knew him." 

 

  

David L. Murray
David L. Murray

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