MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Va. (WJHL) – Authorities say a missing Virginia Tech student who was supposed to arrive in Abingdon on Friday seemed to be acting irregularly before disappearing.
A news release from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office states Jonathan “Johnny” Roop, 20, is believed to have left the county on his own Friday. The sheriff’s office stated Tuesday that Roop is thought to have headed toward Southwest Virginia or Tennessee.
Roop is a senior in the Pamplin College of Business at Virginia Tech. The university had previously reported that Roop was last seen at his apartment in the Merrimac area of Montgomery County on Friday. Roop was expected at his parents’ home in Abingdon by 5 p.m., but he never arrived.
The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office released surveillance images of Roop at “local businesses/financial institutions” and noted that he was seen in the Christiansburg area until around 3:30 p.m. Friday.
Roop’s phone was pinged in Christiansburg at 4:26 p.m. near a mall.
“Based on interviews with friends and family (in addition to video surveillance) it was noted that Mr. Roop’s behavior on Friday was not consistent with his normal patterns of behavior,” the sheriff’s office stated in the release. “However, information received seems to indicate that he was alone.”
Investigators stated they had not received any information that caused them to believe Roop was in immediate danger. However, the sheriff’s office stated that because of Roop’s inconsistent behavior, investigators would like to make contact with him to confirm his safety.
Family members of Roop are worried and have been devoting their energy to working with law enforcement. Roop’s father, Tim Roop, provided a statement on behalf of the family.
“We would very much like to thank every single person that has helped or prayed for our son,” said Tim Roop. “The outreach of love and support we have received is overwhelming. Please continue to pray that he is found safe.”
On Monday, Washington County Sheriff Blake Andis told News Channel 11 that while his office was aware of the search for Roop, the investigation was being handled by Montgomery County and the Virginia State Police. The Abingdon Police Department also confirmed that it had not been asked to assist in the search for Roop.
Roop is described as being 6 foot 3 inches and weighing between 230-240 pounds. He has blonde hair and hazel eyes.
A prayer walk for Roop has been planned for 6 p.m. Tuesday at 26540 Preston Place in Abingdon. Those attending are asked to wear maroon and orange.
