Suspect married to victims widow

A 67-year-old Gordonsville man charged in connection with a 20-year-old slaying, is married to the victim’s widow and helped raise at least two of the victim’s children, according to Albemarle County court officials.

Alvin Lee Morris, charged with first-degree murder, robbery and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, was denied bond in a court hearing this morning. He is scheduled to return to court on June 26.

John Zug, assistant commonwealth’s attorney, told the court that Morris is married to the former Barbara Shifflett, who was married to Roger L. Shifflett when Shifflett was shot and killed June 20, 1988.

Defense attorney Francis McQ. Lawrence told the court that Morris had helped raise Shifflett’s younger children.

Shifflett, who was 38 when he was shot, was found with gunshot wounds in the face, head and neck from a small caliber handgun. He died at the convenience store he operated with his wife, the now defunct Southwind Gas and Grocery on Route 20. An estimated $135 was taken from the store.

Lawrence said Morris retired from a 30-year career with Safeway stores and worked as a contract U.S. Postal Service driver for 12 years and five years in landscaping.