Friday, September 2, 2016

Man Indicted in Bethel Street Homicide


September 2, 2016

A Richmond man was indicted Wednesday on multiple charges in connection with a homicide that occurred late last month in the city’s east end.

Daquan W. Morris, 24, of the 1800 block of North 23rd Street, was indicted by a grand jury on charges of first-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. He was initially arrested shortly after the incident.  His booking photo is attached.

At approximately 11:51 p.m. on August 26, officers responded to the 2300 block of Bethel Street for reports of shots fired and persons shot. They arrived to find one male and one female suffering from apparent gunshot wounds.

Both victims were taken to a local hospital. The female victim was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The male victim – Joseph C. Johnson, 44, of the 1900 block of Whitcomb Street – succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

A party was taking place in the area prior to the shooting, and a large group of people was present when police arrived on scene. Investigation revealed a fight broke out at the party and gunshots were fired, striking the victims.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Major Crimes Detective Michael Gouldman at 804 646-3915 or Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. Citizens can also text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip.

Submit tips to GUN250 about persons in possession of illegally-held guns by texting Crime Stoppers at 274637, then using keyword “GUN250” followed by your tip. Rewards up to $250. All the Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.