Luray Man Accused of Abduction, Sexual Assault Faces Charges From Multiple Agencies
ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, Va. — Charges from three separate law enforcement agencies have been filed against a man accused of crimes in two counties.
On the morning of July 20, 2026, the Page County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) Investigation Division received a request for assistance from the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO), in reference to an alleged abduction and rape case.
It was reported that the alleged abduction occurred in Rockingham County, and the alleged rape occurred in Page County.
During the investigation, the suspect, identified as Shawn William Seal, was located in the parking lot of the Valley Mountain Motel in Shenandoah.
When investigators approached, Seal fled in his Subaru.
Deputies initiated a pursuit that continued into Rockingham County.
The suspect’s vehicle was stopped on I-81 by RCSO and Virginia State Police units.
After a brief stand off, Seal, 34, was taken into custody.
According to an emailed statement from RCSO Sheriff Bryan Hutcheson, the Rockingham Sheriff’s Office has charged Seal with abduction by force, burglary with intent to commit a felony (armed), attempted malicious wounding, and preventing a person from summoning emergency services.
Virginia State Police charged Seal with felony eluding.
According to a written media statement from PSCO Major Steve Owens, the Page County Sheriff’s Office has charged Seal with abduction, rape, aggravated sexual battery and eluding.
On Tuesday, Owens told news station WHSV-TV that Flock cameras played a significant role in locating Seal.
The comments came during an interview for a separate story about surveillance technology — which has sparked debate between law enforcement and community members nationwide.
In a written statement to Shen-Valley Times, Owens said:
I am an advocate for Flock, and Monday’s successful joint effort shows how it can be a huge benefit to law enforcement — and the community.
We appreciate all the help from other jurisdictions, the state police, Rockingham County, and the Shenandoah Police Department.
Seal may face additional charges pending further investigation.
