Search continues for missing Pamplin, Va. teen

The search for missing 19-year-old Megan L. Metzger remains ongoing Friday (July 20), as the Virginia State Police investigation into her disappearance is actively underway. State police investigators have confirmed that Miss Metzger was last heard from (Tuesday) July 17, 2018. State police is still working with the assistance of family and friends to verify a location where she was last physically seen. Megan has relocated her residence numerous times in the last year, living with various friends and acquaintances. Pamplin, Va. has been her most consistent residence.

State police are especially focusing on the connection between Miss Metzger and the white 2004 Mazda 4-door compact sedan that was found Thursday (July 19) in Westmoreland County. The vehicle had been set fire and Juan Benavidez II, 19, of King George, Va., has been charged with the vehicle arson. The registered owner of the Mazda is Miss Metzger. Benavidez and Megan are acquaintances.

Megan’s disappearance is being investigated as an abduction, which qualifies her for the Virginia Critically Missing Adult Alert Activation. State police continues to work closely with the Westmoreland County Sheriff’s Office and other local jurisdictions as tips and new leads filter in to investigators.

The Westmoreland County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the vehicle fire and apprehended Benavidez at approximately 1 a.m. Friday(July 20). The sheriff’s office located the Mazda on Leestown Road near Twilford in Westmoreland County.