Travis Isbell Death & Obituary: A man has been sentenced to 28 years in prison for the murder of 33-year-old Travis Isbell, whose remains were discovered in the Roanoke River in June 2022. The sentencing follows a conviction in Roanoke, Virginia, as confirmed by John McNeil Jr., the Chief Assistant Commonwealth Attorney for Roanoke City.
Details of the Case and Plea
Matthew Aldridge entered a no-contest plea to second-degree murder in connection with Isbell’s death. Aldridge, who initially faced a charge of first-degree murder, was sentenced to 40 years in prison, with 28 years to be served before the remaining years of his sentence are suspended. Upon his release, Aldridge will be placed on two years of probation.
Discovery of Travis Isbell’s Remains
Travis Isbell’s remains were found in the Roanoke River on June 28, 2022. Initially believed to be an accidental death, the case took a dark turn in January 2024 when authorities received an anonymous tip. The tip led investigators to Matthew Aldridge, and further evidence uncovered Facebook messages from Aldridge that implicated him in the crime.
Investigation and Admission of Guilt
Following the tip, Roanoke police investigators learned that Aldridge had murdered Isbell in a residence on Salem Turnpike. Aldridge later admitted to fatally striking Isbell in the head with a hammer during an interview with a detective. At the time of the interview, Aldridge was already in custody in New Hampshire on unrelated drug charges, and he was subsequently extradited to Roanoke to face the charges.
Conclusion
The murder of Travis Isbell is a heartbreaking tragedy, and the conviction of Matthew Aldridge brings a measure of justice to his family and the community. As Aldridge begins his sentence, this case serves as a reminder of the importance of diligent investigation and the impact of violence on families and communities.