
Prince William County Police made an arrest Tuesday in the 14-year-old cold case of Shane Ryan Donahue, who was 23 at the time of his disappearance.
The suspect was identified as 43-year-old Timothy Sean Hickerson, who lives in Palm Coast, Fla. Hickerson was arrested by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office and will be extradited to Virginia.
More from Prince William Police on the case:
Murder Investigation *COLD CASE | ARREST – On March 24, 2010, officers responded to a residence located in the 14000 block of Aden Rd in Nokesville (20181) to investigate a missing person. The investigation revealed family members had not heard from the victim, identified as Shane Ryan DONAHUE, age 23, after he was last seen leaving his parent’s residence on March 22, 2010. Over the course of the more than 14-year-long investigation, several investigative leads were developed and explored based on information brought to the attention of police.
In spring 2024, detectives reactivated the investigation, reexamining every detail of the case from scratch, including revisiting interviewed parties and digital evidence in greater detail due to advances in analytical technology and modern police investigative practices. The victim and an acquaintance, identified as the accused, were last seen leaving the victim’s parent’s home together reportedly returning to the victim’s nearby residence in the 12000 block of Aden Road. The victim was not seen or heard from again. Although the victim’s remains have not been located, he is presumed deceased. During the investigation, the accused was connected to a burglary that occurred at the victim’s residence just days prior to his disappearance.
In September 2024, following the investigation, Prince William County detectives obtained arrest warrants for the accused, identified as Timothy Sean HICKERSON, who would have been 28 years old at the time of the victim’s disappearance. With the assistance of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, the accused was arrested in Palm Coast, Florida where he will remain incarcerated until extradited to Virginia.
Arrested on September 17: [No photo available]
Timothy Sean HICKERSON, 43, of 65 Foxhall Ln in Palm Coast, Fla.
Charged with murder and burglary
Court Date: Pending | Status: In-Custody, Pending Extradition
Identified:
The victim was identified as Shane Ryan DONAHUE, 23 (at the time of his disappearance), of Nokesville
Anyone with information that can aid investigators in this ongoing case is asked to contact Prince William County police at 703-792-6500 or submit a tip online at pwcva.gov/policetip.
Recent Stories

McClung-Logan Equipment Company is hosting its 40th Annual Oyster Roast, a signature customer appreciation event celebrating tradition, community, and generosity.
This year’s milestone celebration will take place on Thursday, March 6th, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Fredericksburg Agricultural Fairgrounds.
The first Oyster Roast began as a fundraiser in 1985, led by White Oak Equipment founder Frank McCarty, to raise donations for an employee battling cancer. This turned into a time-honored tradition for individuals facing hardship.

A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Environmental Film Festival: Turtle Walker
DC Premiere.
In the late 1970s, Satish Bhaskar embarked on an epic journey along India’s coastline and the spectacular Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where he uncovered the vital nesting beaches of sea turtles. During his death-defying quest, he unravels mysteries
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and