July 9, 2019
The Richmond Police Department is investigating an incident overnight that involved an exchange of gunfire between two RPD officers and person discovered on the grounds of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School.
At approximately
2:14 a.m., an RPD officer was conducting a routine security check at the school
when he observed an individual in a secure, fenced-in area behind the building.
The officer called
for back-up. Two additional officers arrived to assist. Contact was made with
the individual, at which time gunfire was exchanged.
The suspect fled
the area. No description is yet available.
At this time,
detectives say there is no on-going threat to the community.
“I am relieved
that none of the officers were injured,” said Chief William C. Smith. “This is
a sobering reminder of the dangers these men and women face as they work to
protect the community.”
Because two of the
officers discharged their weapons, the Department’s Force Investigation Team
(FIT), comprised of Major Crimes detectives, will create a report about the
incident. It will be reviewed by Chief William C. Smith and then sent to the
Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office for review.
The two officers
who discharged their weapons have been placed on administrative assignment.
