Calvin Junior Duncan II, 35, has been sentenced to 44 years and one month in prison for the murder of 59-year-old Ronnie Akers, whose body was discovered in a burned vehicle in Rural Retreat on January 13, 2023.
Duncan, who pleaded no contest to a series of charges in October 2024, will serve time for first-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, arson, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and the disposal of a dead body.
The Wythe County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call at 3:47 a.m. on January 13, 2023, reporting a fire in the 400 block of Saint Paul Church Road.
Upon arriving at the scene, deputies found a vehicle engulfed in flames. When the fire was extinguished, a body was discovered inside the vehicle. The remains were later identified as Ronnie Akers.
Investigators revealed that Duncan shot Akers three times before attempting to conceal his actions by placing Akers’ body in a truck and setting it on fire.
The motive behind the crime remains unclear, as Duncan offered no explanation for his actions.
Wythe County Commonwealth’s Attorney Mike Jones condemned Duncan’s actions, calling the crime “heinous.” In a statement following the sentencing, Jones said, “This was a heinous act committed by the defendant. He shot an unarmed man three times and then attempted to cover up his actions by placing the body of Mr. Akers in a truck and setting it on fire.”
Jones continued, “Duncan gave no reason for his actions and was sentenced to the top end of the sentencing guidelines.
The sentence will do nothing to bring Mr. Akers back, a man that was deeply loved by his family. I hope that the family of Mr. Akers can now start the long process of healing in the months and years to come."
The Wythe County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with the Virginia State Police, conducted a meticulous investigation into the case, which ultimately led to Duncan's conviction.
Jones thanked the law enforcement agencies for their thorough work in bringing justice to Akers’ family.
“This is a tragic case, and I hope that today’s sentence provides a measure of justice for Mr. Akers’ family,” Jones said. “Our thoughts remain with them during this difficult time.”
Duncan's sentencing brings closure to a case that shocked the Wythe County community and serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of violent crime.