An Albemarle County man accused of killing a convenience store owner 21 years ago is scheduled to stand trial next week.

Alvin Lee “Butch” Morris appeared Wednesday in court, where he was granted a $50,000 property-secured bond, said defense attorney Dana Slater. Morris previously was denied bond last month, but Slater said there wasn’t time to prepare for a proper bond hearing so soon after his arrest.

For 20 years, Earl “Picky” Shifflett never gave up hope that police would arrest someone in the execution-style killing of his brother.

A man charged this week with killing a storeowner in 1988 is now married to the dead man’s widow and has helped raise his children, authorities disclosed Friday.

Alvin Lee Morris, 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 was denied bond Friday morning in Albemarle General District Court. He was charged this week with first-degree murder, robbery and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.

Roger L. Shifflett, a 38-year-old father of five, was shot to death June 20, 1988. Almost two decades later, Albemarle County police have charged a man in his killing.

Roger L. Shifflett, a 38-year-old father of five, was killed June 20, 1988. Almost two decades later, Albemarle County police believe they have found the killer.