Pedestrian Struck, Information Sought

September 29, 2017

The Richmond Police Department Crash Team is seeking information from anyone who witnessed a vehicle striking a pedestrian yesterday on Forest Hill Avenue.

At approximately 6:10 p.m., a pedestrian in a crosswalk was crossing Forest Hill Avenue in the 7400 block when a vehicle traveling westbound on Forest Hill Avenue struck the pedestrian. The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital with injuries that were considered life threatening.

Investigators with the Crash Team responded and interviewed the driver and took measurements. They are now requesting anyone who witnessed the collision at the intersection of Forest Hill Avenue and Sheila Lane near the entrance to Lowe’s and Walmart to contact Special Operations Division Investigator J. Peterson at (804) 646-1665 or call Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000.

 

Persons of Interest Sought in Fan Aggravated Assault

September 26, 2017

Richmond Police detectives need the public’s help to identify the two persons of interest in the attached photos who may have witnessed an assault that occurred in the Fan neighborhood last month.

At approximately 2:20 a.m., on Wednesday, Aug. 23, police responded to the 2500 block of West Main Street for the report of an assault. When officers arrived, they found two individuals suffering from severe facial injuries. 

The victims were transported to a local hospital to be treated.

The individuals who may have information regarding the incident are described as:

• Male with a medium complexion and dark hair. He was last seen wearing a black T-shirt, and blue jeans.
• Male with medium complexion with dark hair and a thin goatee. He was last seen wearing a light gray tank top, dark pants, and a thick gold chain

Detectives ask anyone with any information about the individual’s identities to call Major Crimes Detective B. Neifeld at (804) 646-3246 or Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.

Pedestrian Identified in Azalea Avenue Fatality

September 24, 2017

The Richmond Police Department has identified the pedestrian who was struck and killed yesterday on Azalea Avenue as Tara L. Anderson, 33, of no known address.

At approximately 2:59 p.m., a vehicle was at a stop sign on Seminary Avenue at the intersection of Azalea Avenue. The vehicle entered the intersection making a left turn eastbound onto Azalea Avenue. Anderson was crossing the street, not at a crosswalk, and was struck in the left travel lane on Azalea Avenue. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the vehicle had remained at the scene.

The RPD Crash Team responded to the scene where they took measurements and interviewed the driver. No charges have been filed, however, a final decision on charges will be made in consultation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.

Investigators ask anyone with any information to call Detective L. Walker at 646-1709 or Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.

Woman, Vehicle Sought in Possible Connection to Frank Road Homicide Investigation Located

September 22, 2017

Richmond Police detectives have located the woman and vehicle they were seeking following a homicide on Frank Road this week.

This morning at approximately 1 a.m., officers were notified that Shatema Smith was located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Detectives are traveling to Raleigh to interview Smith. The Mercedes Benz that detectives were attempting to find was also located there.

Detectives with the Major Crimes unit are continuing to investigate the homicide but have no further information to release regarding the case at this time.

Anyone with further information about the case is asked to call Major Crimes Detective K. Hughes at (804) 646-3917 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or www.7801000.com The Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Suspect Sought in East End Robbery Inside Taxicab

September 22, 2017

Richmond Police detectives need the public’s help to identify the suspect in the attached photo wanted in connection to an armed robbery in the city’s East End.

At approximately 4:05 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 21, an officer was flagged down in the 1700 block of Fairfield Way for a report of an armed robbery. Police were told the suspect entered a taxicab in the 1900 block of Accommodation Street and asked the driver to take her to a nearby convenience store. When the driver arrived at the destination in the 1600 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, she leaves the vehicle.

A few moments later when she entered the taxicab again, she asks the driver to take her back to the 1900 block of Accommodation Street. When they arrive, she pulls a metallic object, believed to be a firearm, and presses it against the driver’s side. She demanded money and after the driver complies, flees the scene on foot.

The suspect is described as a black woman with a light complexion and a tattoo of the word “pain” and hearts on her left hand. At the time she was wearing a green San Antonio Spurs baseball hat, a light-colored shirt and a pants with a green and black Aztec print.

Detectives ask anyone with any information about this woman’s identity to call First Precinct Detective Gaetano Drago at (804) 510-4182 or (804) 646-3395 or Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.

Victim Identified in Frank Road Homicide

September 20, 2017

Richmond Police Department detectives have identified the victim in yesterday’s homicide on Frank Road as Montez A. Matthews, 33, of the 3300 block of Frank Road.

Yesterday at approximately 1:46 p.m., officers were called to a house in the 3300 block of Frank Road for the report of a person down. Officers arrived and found Matthews in the home suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

 The Richmond Police Department is continuing to ask for the public’s help to locate Shatema Smith who has not been seen by her family or friends since Saturday evening. She may be in danger and she may also have information about this incident to share with detectives.

Smith is described as a black female, 37, who is 5’ 9” tall, approximately 133 pounds, with multiple tattoos (one of them says “TEMA”) on her right arm and left leg.

Also missing is a vehicle used by Matthews. It is described as a 2007 Mercedes Benz four-door sedan, silver or gray-colored, with VA license plate VXW-7678.

Photos of Smith and the vehicle are attached.

Anyone with information about this homicide is asked to call Major Crimes Detective K. Hughes at (804) 646-3917 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com.

Submit tips to GUN250 about persons illegally possessing guns by texting Crime Stoppers at 274637, then using keyword “GUN250” followed by your tip. Rewards up to $250. Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

 

 

 

Missing Woman & Vehicle Sought in Death Investigation

September 19, 2017

The Richmond Police Department is asking for the public’s help to locate a woman who may be connected to a death investigation currently being conducted on the city’s south side. RPD detectives believe she may be in danger.

Shatema Smith has not been seen by her family or friends since the evening of Saturday, September 16, 2017. RPD detectives believe she may have information about the circumstances surrounding the death of a friend of hers, Montez Matthews, 33, whose body was found early this afternoon inside his home in the 3300 block of Frank Road.

The missing woman, Smith, is described as a black female, 37 years of age, 5’ 9” tall, 133 pounds (or heavier), with multiple tattoos (one of them says “TEMA”) on her right arm and left leg.

Also missing is a vehicle used by the victim, Matthews. It is described as a 2007 silver or grey Mercedes Benz four-door sedan with VA license plates VXW-7678.

Photos of Smith and the vehicle are attached.

Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Smith or the vehicle or has information about the case is asked to call Major Crimes Detective K. Hughes at (804) 646-3917 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or www.7801000.com The Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

 

 

 

Frank Road Death Investigation

September 19, 2017

At approximately 1:46 p.m., officers were called to a house in the 3300 block of Frank Road for the report of a person down. Officers arrived and found a male in the home who was down and unresponsive.

Detectives have opened a death investigation for this incident and are canvassing the area, asking neighbors for any information they can provide as the forensics team collects evidence from the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information about this death investigation is asked to call Major Crimes Detective K. Hughes at (804) 646-3917 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com.

Submit tips to GUN250 about persons illegally possessing guns by texting Crime Stoppers at 274637, then using keyword “GUN250” followed by your tip. Rewards up to $250. Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Suspect Sought in Multiple Commercial Armed Robberies on Midlothian Turnpike

September 19, 2017

 Richmond Police detectives need the public’s help to identify the suspect in the attached photo wanted in connection to two commercial robberies in the city’s south side.

 

Around 11:20 a.m., on Tuesday, Sept. 12, police responded to the 6800 block of Midlothian Turnpike for a report of a robbery. After interacting with the suspect regarding documentation, the suspect pulled a firearm, pointed it at the employee and demanded money. The employee complied and the suspect then fled the scene in an older model dark gray four-door Acura. The vehicle did not have a front license plate.

Later in the afternoon at 5 p.m., officers responded to the 6100 block of Midlothian Turnpike for another report of a robbery. Police were told the suspect walked into the store with an envelope in her hand. After a brief interaction, the same suspect unveiled the firearm and demanded money. The employee complied and the suspect walked out of the door and fled the scene in the gray vehicle.

The suspect is described as a black female with a light complexion and dark hair pulled in to a ponytail. She is approximately 20 to 25 years old and 140 to 160 pounds. She was last seen wearing a baseball cap, gray T-shirt, dark basketball shorts and white sneakers and socks.

 

Detectives ask anyone with any information about this man’s identity to call Third Precinct Detective Ryan Nixon at (804) 646-1165 or Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. Citizens can also text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip. Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

 

Victim Identified in North 4th Street Death Investigation

September 17, 2017

The Richmond Police Department has identified the victim of a death investigation which occurred yesterday morning in the Monroe Ward neighborhood.

At approximately 6:20 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 16, police were called to the 00 block of North 4^th Street for a report of a stabbing. Police were told a known individual forced his way into an apartment and began to assault two adult males. During the altercation, the individual suffered a stab wound.

The decedent has been identified as Brandon Lamb, 29, of the 2900 block of Chamberlayne Avenue. He was pronounced dead at the scene. A medical examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.

Police are pursing this case as a death investigation. Involved parties have been interviewed by police. No charges have been filed at this time.

Anyone with information about this death investigation is asked to call Major Crimes Det. Sgt. Michael Rogers at (804) 646-3914 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com.

Submit tips to GUN250 about persons illegally possessing guns by texting Crime Stoppers at 274637, then using keyword “GUN250” followed by your tip. Rewards up to $250. Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

RVA Assemblies

September 17, 2017

The Richmond Police Department would like to thank everyone involved in yesterday’s assemblies along Monument Avenue: our law enforcement partners both local, state and federal; other city agencies and especially Richmond residents and those who showed up to peacefully demonstrate.

“I think many people heeded our advice and stayed home,” said RPD Chief Alfred Durham. “And those who did show up were provided with safe spaces to express their opinions thanks to the skill and professionalism of the officers who were on-post. I can’t thank them enough. It was an A+ effort.”

There were no accidents, no injuries and only seven arrests yesterday. Barricades were taken down, no-parking restrictions lifted and all streets were reopened hours earlier than anticipated so as not to further inconvenience the residents. Crowds at any given time throughout the day never exceeded more than a few hundred participants.

“Our greatest fear was the fear of the unknown,” said Chief Durham. “We had to plan for a lot of possible scenarios which, fortunately, didn’t materialize. I am especially pleased with the help our government partners offered at every step of the planning process and then showed up this weekend in force. We owe them a great debt of gratitude.”
The assembly areas were quiet overnight and again today. Staffing levels have been reduced but additional patrols will continue for the time-being.

 

“We are not letting our guard down,” said Chief Durham. “We will continue to monitor those groups who are attempting to bring violence to our city. We will remain vigilant. It’s all about presence and action.”

6 p.m. Status Update on Assemblies

September 16, 2017

As activity continues to wind down in the city, roads are being reopened and parking restrictions related to today’s events are being lifted.

No injuries or accidents have been reported at this time. Officers will remain vigilant throughout the night, monitoring any activity and responding appropriately.

As of this press release, seven total arrests have been made.

·         Deante L. Watkins, 18, of the 1000 block of Althea Parkway in Richmond, VA, is charged with two counts each of possession of a stolen weapon and possession of a concealed weapon.

·         Brittany D. Bush, 29, of the 00 block of Jefferson Street in Petersburg, VA, is charged with disorderly conduct.

·         Jabari A. Robinson, 21, 4000 block of Old Mountain Road in Roanoke, VA, is charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

·         Caroline Hill, 24, the 6900 of McLean Park Manor Court, McLean, is charged with wearing a mask in public.

·         Thomas W. Rockett, 21, 2000 Highcourt Lane in Herndon, VA, is charged with wearing a mask in public.

·         Corissa C. Duffey, 25, 100 Springdale Road, Stockbridge, GA, is charged with wearing a mask in public.

·         Ian M. Gerson, 32, 00 block of Hart Street in Brooklyn, NY, is charged with wearing a mask in public.

Booking photos are not available at this time.

RPD Continues to Monitor Activity as Assemblies Disperse

September 16, 2017

As assemblies have dispersed into small groups throughout the city, Richmond Police and its regional law enforcement partners continue to monitor these activities and respond appropriately.

An increased law enforcement presence will be visible in the city throughout the night. Officers will remain vigilant in tracking any activity that carries over into this evening. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to authorities by alerting an officer or calling 911.

Police have begun to remove barricades used to restrict vehicular and pedestrian traffic along the Monument Avenue corridor.

Woman Arrested During September 16 Assembly

September 16, 2017

Richmond Police arrested a Petersburg woman on a misdemeanor charge related to the assembly occurring today along the Monument Avenue corridor.

Brittany D. Bush, 29, of the 00 block of Jefferson Street, Petersburg, was arrested shortly after 11:30 a.m. and charged with disorderly conduct. She was taken into custody near Stuart Circle on Monument Avenue after she was observed loudly threatening a bystander with whom she had become combative. This remains, as of the time of this release, the only arrest in connection with this assembly.

The incident remains under investigation.

There is no booking photo available.

Traffic Advisory: Road Closures for September 16 Assemblies

September 14, 2017

There will be road closures and no parking zones on several streets due to possible assemblies this weekend. Maps can be found below.

Monument Avenue

Road closures and no parking zones will be designated beginning at 9 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 15 and will reopen 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16:

• Monument Avenue between Lombardy and Meadow streets;
• North Allen Avenue between West Grace Street and Park Avenue;
• West Grace Street westbound between Allen Avenue and Lombardy Street, and;
• West Grace Street eastbound between Allen Avenue and Meadow Street.

Richmond Coliseum Area

Road closures will be designated beginning at 5 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 16 on the following streets and will reopen as soon as possible Saturday afternoon based on conditions:

·         East Clay Street between Ninth and Seventh streets

·         North Eighth Street between East Leigh and Marshall streets

No parking zones will be designated at 5 p.m., Friday, Sept. 15 through 11 p.m., Sept. 16 for the following streets:

·         East Clay Street between Ninth and Seventh streets

·         North Eighth Street between East Leigh and Marshall streets

·         East Leigh Street between Fourth and Eighth streets.

Traffic Advisory: Additional No Parking for September 16 Event

September 13, 2017

There will be additional no parking zones on several streets due to possible assemblies this weekend. Maps can be found below.

Richmond Coliseum Area

NO PARKING zones will be designated beginning at 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 15 to 11 p.m. Saturday for the following roads:

• East Leigh Street in both directions between North 4^th and 8^th streets 
• North 8^th Street between North 7^th and 9^th streets
• East Clay Street between North 7^th Street and 9^th streets

Richmond Coliseum Tunnel – NO PARKING zones will be designated beginning at 6 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 16 to 11 p.m.

The following have already been announced:

Monument Avenue

NO PARKING zones will be designated beginning at 9 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 15 to 11 p.m. Saturday for the following roads:

• Monument Avenue between North Lombardy Street and North Meadow Street
• North Allen Avenue between West Grace Street and Park Avenue
• West Grace Street westbound between North Allen Avenue and North Lombardy Street
• West Grace Street east bound between North Allen Avenue and North Meadow Street

Maps will also be posted on the Richmond Police Department website.

RPD Hosts Community Meeting to Address Upcoming Monument Avenue Events

September 12, 2017

WHAT:                   Community Discussion on Monument Avenue Event

WHEN:                   6 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 14

WHERE:                 First Baptist Church, 2709 Monument Ave.

BACKGROUND:     Richmond Police Chief Alfred Durham will host a community meeting to address and answer questions regarding the possible demonstrations the weekend of Sept. 16.

Members of the media are encouraged to attend.

Mayor Stoney, Chief Alfred Durham to Address Upcoming Monument Avenue Events

September 12, 2017

WHAT:                   Press Conference on Monument Avenue Event

WHEN:                   3:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 14

WHERE:                 Richmond Police Training Academy, Room 103; 1202 W Graham Rd.

 

BACKGROUND:    Mayor Levar M. Stoney and Chief Alfred Durham will hold a press conference to address public safety in reference to the anticipated demonstrations to be held the weekend of Sept. 16.

Members of the media are encouraged to attend.

Victim Identified in 5th Avenue Homicide

September 12, 2017

The Richmond Police Department has identified the male victim of Saturday’s shooting as Victor A. Harris, 57, of the 3200 block of 5^th Avenue. Harris succumbed to his injuries Monday night. His death is now being investigated as a homicide.

At approximately 10:21 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 9, Richmond Police officers were called to the 3200 block of 5^th Avenue for a report of a person shot. They quickly located two victims, a male and juvenile female, who had been shot.

The female victim was located on the porch of a residence on 5^th Avenue with non-life threatening injuries. Harris was located nearby on Pollock Street with life threatening injuries. Both victims were transported to a local hospital. The female victim has since been treated and released. A medical examiner will determine the cause and manner of Harris’ death.

Shortly after the shooting, three male suspects were seen running toward a small dark-colored sedan parked in the 3300 block of 4^th Avenue. They fled the scene in the vehicle.

The victims are not related and, at this time, detectives have not linked this incident to any other shootings in the city. However, it is believed the shooting may be related to a fight which occurred earlier in the day between two teenagers in the 3200 block of 5^th Avenue.

Anyone with information that may be helpful to the investigation is asked to call the Major Crimes Detectives J. Bridges (804) 646-4494.  They may also contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com.

 

Submit tips to GUN250 about persons illegally possessing guns by texting Crime Stoppers at 274637, then using keyword “GUN250” followed by your tip. Rewards up to $250. Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Suspect Sought in East End Commercial Breaking and Entering

September 12, 2017

Richmond Police detectives need the public’s help to identify the suspect in the attached photos wanted in connection to a burglary in the city’s East End.

At approximately 3:22 p.m., police were called to the 3000 block of Nine Mile Road for a commercial burglary. Police were told the incident occurred between the hours of 12:30 a.m. and 6 a.m. When staff arrived at 6 a.m., the store’s security alarm was beeping. Upon further observation, it was found that the lock to a shed was broken. Inside of the shed, it appears the suspect rummaged through the shed’s contents but nothing appeared to be taken.

The suspects are described as:

·        Suspect 1: A black male with a medium complexion, dark goatee and average height, and thin build. He was wearing all light colors including a hoodie, jogging pants, and dark-colored shoes.

·        Suspect 2: A black male with a light complexion, a short and dark beard, tall in height and a thin build. At the time he was wearing all light colors including a hat, plain jersey with a T-shirt underneath, jogging pant, jacket with zipper, gloves and medium-colored tennis shoes.

Detectives ask anyone with any information about this man’s identity to call First Precinct Detective Nathaniel Reese at (804) 646-0671 or Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. Citizens can also text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip. Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

 

Suspect Sought in Northside Commercial Breaking and Entering

September 12, 2017

Richmond Police detectives need the public’s help to identify the suspect in the attached photos wanted in connection to a commercial breaking and entering in the city’s Northside.

Around 7:45 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 4, police were called to Popeye’s Louisiana Kitchen at 2709 Chamberlayne Avenue for a report of a burglary. Police were told the restaurant’s alarm was activated at approximately 5:35 a.m. however the remote view of the camera system did not show any suspects. A few hours later when staff arrived, the front door was found unlocked.

After police responded, it was found the drive-thru window was also open and two registers had been forcibly opened. However, no money was taken. The business only suffered property damage.

The suspect is described as a black male with a medium complexion and a dark goatee. He was last seen wearing a dark-colored glasses, a dark-colored baseball cap, light-colored cargo shorts, white sneakers and light-colored gloves.

Detectives ask anyone with any information about this man’s identity to call Fourth Precinct Detective Michael DiSalvo at (804) 646-3184 or Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. Citizens can also text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip. Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Photos from surveillance at Popeye’s Louisiana Kitchen