An active investigation is ongoing at multiple locations in Virginia Beach, VA, following a series of shootings that left two individuals dead and at least eight others injured. This tragic incident occurred just days after a mass shooting in Boulder, CO, which took the lives of ten people.
The Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) reported via Twitter that they are investigating a shooting involving several victims with potentially life-threatening injuries. A significant police presence was noted at the oceanfront area between 17th and 22nd Streets, and the public was advised to avoid the vicinity. The chaos began around 11 p.m. when officers were patrolling the 1900 block of Atlantic Avenue, a popular resort area, and were alerted to the sound of gunfire.
According to Police Chief Mark Thompson, at least eight individuals suffered gunshot wounds, with injuries varying from serious to life-threatening. One woman tragically died at the scene, while a police officer sustained minor injuries and was taken to the hospital. As the investigation unfolded, shots were fired about a block away, leading to a confrontation between a uniformed officer and a male suspect, who was subsequently shot and killed by the police.
Multiple shooting locations were reported, and a second victim was confirmed dead in a separate nearby incident, although authorities do not believe this shooting is connected to the initial events. “What you can see is we have a very chaotic incident and a very chaotic night at the beach,” Chief Thompson stated, emphasizing the complexity of the situation with various crime scenes.
According to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been 104 mass shootings across 29 states and Washington, D.C. in 2021 alone, not including this latest incident. The definition of a mass shooting includes any event where four or more individuals are shot or killed, excluding the shooter.
As of the latest updates, no suspects have been identified, and while no arrests were made during the initial briefing, several individuals are in police custody. The Homicide Unit of the police department is handling the ongoing investigation. As a standard protocol, the officer involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative assignment while the investigation continues. This officer has been with the department for five years and is part of the Special Operations Division.
While authorities have yet to determine a motive for the shootings, they encourage anyone with information to reach out to Virginia Beach Crime Solvers. Due to the active nature of the crime scene, police request that the public steer clear of the area until a thorough assessment can be completed.
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Summary:
A series of shootings in Virginia Beach has left two people dead and at least eight injured, prompting a significant police investigation. Several gunshot locations have been identified, and authorities are urging the public to avoid the area. Ongoing investigations continue, with police emphasizing the chaotic nature of the incidents.