Eight people were injured in a shooting in Virginia Beach after what police described as an exchange of gunfire between two groups of young people.
Shooting Breaks Out on Atlantic Avenue
According to the Virginia Beach Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire around 9:50 p.m. on April 11 in the 1400 block of Atlantic Avenue.
At the scene, police found eight victims suffering from gunshot wounds, including teenagers and young adults. Authorities said the victims ranged in age from 17 to 24.
All were transported to local hospitals and are expected to survive, though injuries ranged from minor to serious.
Altercation Escalates Into Gunfire
Investigators said the shooting began after a confrontation between two unrelated groups of young adults and juveniles.
At least three individuals reportedly exchanged gunfire during the incident.
Arrest Made, Additional Suspects Sought
Police arrested Jamaya Williams, 18, of Henrico County, who was among those injured in the shooting.
Authorities allege Williams was illegally in possession of two firearms and charged her with multiple offenses, including:
- Seven counts of aggravated assault
- Seven counts of use of a firearm in a felony
- Seven counts of reckless handling of a firearm with injury
- Three counts of violating a protective order
Police are still searching for additional suspects, including Isaiah Charity, 18, of Richmond, who faces numerous felony warrants related to the incident.
Recent Violence Prompts Safety Measures
The shooting comes weeks after another incident on Atlantic Avenue in which six bystanders were injured.
In response, city officials implemented a weekend curfew through the end of April, restricting unaccompanied minors from being at the Oceanfront between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m.
Investigation Ongoing
Deputy Chief William Zelms said there is no ongoing threat to the public but emphasized that authorities are taking the situation seriously.
The Virginia Beach Police Department continues to investigate and is asking anyone with information or video footage to come forward as they work to identify and locate the remaining suspects.
