Man Pleads Guilty in 2015 Murder of Georgia Couple Lured by Fake Car Sale

Overview

A Georgia man, Ronnie “Jay” Towns, pleaded guilty to the murders of Bud and June Runion, a Marietta couple who were lured to Telfair County in 2015 by a false Craigslist advertisement for a classic 1966 Ford Mustang. The couple was robbed and fatally shot after traveling over three hours to buy the car. Towns was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, bringing a decade-long legal ordeal to a close.

The Crime

The Setup: Bud Runion, 69, placed an ad on Craigslist looking for a 1966 Mustang, a car he had owned after returning from the Vietnam War. Responding to the ad, Towns pretended to sell the car, enticing Bud and his 66-year-old wife, June, to travel to McRae-Helena, Georgia.
The Tragedy: Upon arrival, the couple was met not with a car sale but a deadly robbery. Their bodies were later found beside a rural road, both fatally shot.

Legal Journey

Initial Arrest and Charges: Shortly after the murders, Towns was arrested and charged with armed robbery and murder.
Years of Delays: Legal and procedural challenges slowed the case. Towns’ first indictment was dismissed due to problems with how the grand jury was selected. A second indictment in 2020 faced additional delays, compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Breakthrough Evidence: In April 2023, new evidence emerged when a magnet fisher in a creek discovered a .22-caliber rifle, a cellphone, and personal items belonging to the Runions. This strengthened the prosecution’s case and likely influenced Towns’ decision to plead guilty.

The Plea and Sentence

Courtroom Outcome: On November 20, 2023, Towns pleaded guilty to two counts of malice murder in Telfair County Superior Court. By entering the plea, he avoided a possible death sentence.
Judge’s Ruling: Superior Court Judge Sara Wall sentenced Towns to life in prison without parole, stating, “This has been an extremely long 10 years.”

Victims’ Lives and Legacy

Who Were the Runions? Bud and June Runion were deeply rooted in their community north of Atlanta. Bud, a Vietnam War veteran, wanted the 1966 Mustang as a sentimental purchase, symbolizing a piece of his youth.
Charitable Contributions: The couple was known for their philanthropy. Through their grassroots organization, “Bud’s Bicycles,” they refurbished bikes and donated school supplies, coats, blankets, and food to people in need.

Broader Lessons

This case highlights the risks associated with online marketplaces like Craigslist, where scammers can exploit unsuspecting buyers. Authorities urge users of such platforms to take precautions, such as meeting in well-lit, public locations and involving law enforcement in transactions when possible.

Final Words

The Runions’ deaths left a void in their community but also served as a reminder of their generosity and the importance of vigilance in today’s digital age. The guilty plea concludes a long and painful chapter for their family, ensuring that the man responsible will remain behind bars for life.