Update on Death Investigation and Aggravated Assault on Officer

Update on Death Investigation and Aggravated Assault on Officer

Richmond Police detectives are continuing to investigate the death investigation and aggravated assault that occurred at the execution of a search warrant in Belt Atlantic apartments yesterday.

The 16-year-old male who was injured at the scene succumbed to his injury yesterday at a local hospital.

Yesterday at approximately 5:46 a.m., Third Precinct officers, with assistance of the RPD SWAT team, attempted to execute a search warrant in the 4000 block of Midlothian Turnpike. The search warrant was the result of an ongoing investigation into illegal firearms, specifically use of a machine gun for aggressive purposes and possession of auto sear devices or “switches”.

Officers announced their presence as police multiple times and stated that they had a search warrant. An adult female exited the apartment shortly thereafter. While officers were outside, gunshots were fired from inside the residence. An officer’s ballistic shield was struck by a bullet, a bullet fragment or sharp metal resulting from a bullet passing through the exterior door frame while the officer was at the door. The object then made contact with the officer’s body. The officer was not injured. No officers discharged their weapons during this incident. A photo of the bullet hole in the door frame is attached. A photo of the ballistic shield and a detail of the damage to the shield is also attached.

Two males exited the apartment and informed officers that there was an injured young male still inside.

Officers entered the apartment and observed blood under a closed bedroom door. Officers made entry into the bedroom and found the young male suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. There was no evidence to suggest it was anything other than a self-inflicted wound. The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

The two males, 18, and 13, were taken into investigative detention at the scene.

In the apartment, members of the RPD forensics unit collected bullets that were fired in this incident and cartridge casings. These will be analyzed for comparison to three firearms recovered at the scene. The casings are from a brand of ammunition the RPD does not use. An assault rifle was recovered as well as two firearms which were modified with auto sears or switches, illegal devices which, when attached to a handgun, modify it into a fully automatic ‘machine gun-type’ firearm.

Over 200 rounds of ammunition were also seized.

“The loss of a young life is always tragic, and my deepest condolences go out to the family,” said Chief Rick Edwards. “At the same time, I am incredibly grateful that none of our officers were killed or seriously injured when they came under fire yesterday. This incident is a powerful reminder of the danger illegal firearms and these ‘conversion devices’ bring to our community, and the Richmond Police Department will continue working tirelessly to get them off our streets.”

Anyone with further information about this incident is asked to call Major Crimes Detective J. Crewell at (804) 646-5324 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Solicitamos información sobre tiroteos en Clarkson Road

Solicitamos información sobre tiroteos en Clarkson Road

Detectives de la policía de Richmond están pidiendo a quienes tengan conocimiento de las circunstancias de los tiroteos que ocurrieron ayer en el vecindario de Southwood que llamen a la policía o a la línea de información hispana: (804) 239-4209.

Ayer domingo, aproximadamente a las 3:59 a.m., la policía respondió a una llamada de emergencia gracias a un informe sobre una persona abaleada en la cuadra 1700 de Clarkson Road. Los agentes de policía llegaron y localizaron a un hombre adulto afuera de un edificio de apartamentos, el cual sufría una aparente herida de bala. Los oficiales también encontraron a otros dos adultos en un apartamento que también habían sufrido aparentes heridas de bala. Los tres fueron transportados a un hospital local donde ayer falleció uno de los hombres debido a su herida. Los detectives aún no han podido identificarlo.

También ayer, otro hombre adulto con una aparente herida de bala llegó a un hospital local en un vehículo personal. Se ha determinado que resultó herido en el mismo lugar en Clarkson Road. Las heridas de dos de los hombres se consideran potencialmente mortales. No se considera que la herida del tercer hombre ponga en riesgo su vida.

Los detectives han determinado que el apartamento donde ocurrió el incidente es conocido por organizar fiestas a altas horas de la noche. La investigación sigue abierta.

Se pide que cualquier persona que tenga información sobre este incidente debe llamar al detective A. Sleem de Crímenes Graves al (804) 814-7123, a la línea de información hispana (804) 239-4209 o a Crime Stoppers al (804) 780-1000. También se puede proveer información utilizando la aplicación P3 Tips Crime Stoppers para teléfonos inteligentes. Todos los métodos de denuncia de Crime Stoppers son anónimos.

Information Sought in Clarkson Road Shootings

Information Sought in Clarkson Road Shootings

Richmond Police detectives are asking those with knowledge of the circumstances of the shootings that occurred in the Southwood neighborhood yesterday to call detectives or the Hispanic Tip Line: (804) 239-4209.

Yesterday at approximately 3:59 a.m., officers were called to the 1700 block of Clarkson Road for the report of a person shot. Officers arrived and located an adult male outside an apartment building, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Officers also found two adult makes in an apartment who had also suffered apparent gunshot wounds. All three were transported to a local hospital where yesterday one of the males succumbed to his injury. Detectives have not yet been able to identify him.

Also yesterday, another adult male with an apparent gunshot wound arrived at a local hospital in a personal vehicle. It has been determined he was injured at the same location on Clarkson Road. The injuries to two of the males are considered life threatening. The injury to the third male is not considered life threatening.

Detectives have determined the apartment where the incident occurred is known for hosting after-hours parties. The investigation continues.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Major Crimes Detective A. Sleem at (804) 814-7123, the Hispanic Tip Line (804) 239-4209 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Advisory: Driver Identified in Fatal Motorcycle Crash Investigation

 August 18, 2025

Driver Identified in Fatal Motorcycle Crash Investigation

The Richmond Police Department Crash Team is investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred over the weekend that resulted in a fatality.

At approximately 1:28 a.m., Saturday, August 16, officers were called to the 2800 block of Rady Street for the report of a motorcycle crash. Officers arrived and located the operator, Alfonso Goodwyn, 58, of Richmond, on the ground and unresponsive, suffering from injuries from the crash. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.

The RPD Crash Team responded to the scene and have determined that Goodwyn was traveling westbound on Rady Street when the crash occurred, no other vehicles were involved in the crash, and speed may have been a factor which resulted in the crash.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact RPD Crash Team Investigator R. Jamison at (804) 646-1665 or call Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used.  All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Clarkson Road Death Investigation, Aggravated Assault x3

Clarkson Road Death Investigation, Aggravated Assault x3

Today at approximately 3:59 a.m., officers were called to the 1700 block of Clarkson Road for the report of a person shot. Officers arrived and located an adult male outside an apartment building, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Officers also found two adult makes in an apartment who also had suffered apparent gunshot wounds. All three were transported to a local hospital where one of the males succumbed to his injury.

Officers received information of another adult male with an apparent gunshot wound who arrived at a local hospital in a personal vehicle. It has been determined he was injured at the same location on Clarkson Road. The injuries to two of the males are considered life threatening. The injury to the third male is not considered life threatening.

The Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.

Detectives with the Major Crimes division are investigating. The apartment where the incident occurred is known for hosting after-hours parties.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Major Crimes Detective A. Sleem at (804) 814-7123 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

RPD Releases Final Review of Fatal Monroe Park Shootings

RPD Releases Final Review of Fatal Monroe Park Shootings

The Richmond Police Department has prepared for the public a final review of the investigation into the fatal shootings that occurred in Monroe Park following the Huguenot High School graduation in 2023.

Chief Rick Edwards presents the review, a video that runs just over seven minutes, that features crime scene photos, evidence that was collected, locations at the scene of involved persons, circumstances, motive and a portion of a video presented in court.

The incident generated immense public interest, however the RPD was constrained in what details could be shared as the matter was being adjudicated. The Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney has stated that no further criminal prosecutions in this case are planned, therefore Chief Edwards can fulfill his pledge to present more information to the public at the appropriate time.

“We hope this comprehensive account of this extremely complex case provides the public with the details they need to understand this tragedy,” said RPD Chief Edwards. “I have the utmost respect and appreciation for the actions of the RPD officers, VCU Police officers and VCU security staff who were present at the scene and the RPD detectives, forensic professionals and members of the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney who successfully investigated and prosecuted this difficult case.”

The video can be seen here: https://youtu.be/t4DRltZJLNM

The video may be downloaded here: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/iu3mdac9c9e7ih9l7elvx/Monroe-Park-Shooting-Final-Review.mp4?rlkey=55gy1qpgiafn4l3d8iuqm40jw&st=fbiorte1&dl=0

 

Advisory: Victim Identified, Arrest Made in St. Paul Street Homicide

   August 11, 2025

 

Victim Identified, Arrest Made in St. Paul Street Homicide

 

Richmond Police detectives have identified the victim in the homicide on St. Paul Street on Friday as Mario Swann, 37, of Richmond. 

Detectives located and arrested the suspect, Jerome Lucas, 34, of Richmond, and have charged him with possession of a firearm by a felon and shooting into an occupied dwelling. Additional charges are pending. His booking photo is attached.

On Friday at approximately 2:25 p.m., officers were called to the 1100 block of St. Paul Street for the report of a person shot. Officers arrived and located an adult male, Swann, down and unresponsive outside on the second-floor landing of an apartment building. He had suffered an apparent gunshot wound and was transported to a local hospital where on Friday he succumbed to his injury.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

Officers received information of a dispute between family members inside of an apartment which led to the shooting.

Fourth Precinct officers, Strategic Violence Interdiction Unit, Major Crimes detectives, RPD K-9, Virginia State Police K-9, the U.S. Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force and Chesterfield Police worked the investigation following the shooting. At approximately 6:50 p.m. on Friday, Lucas was located in the Gilpin Court neighborhood and taken into custody without incident.

Anyone with further information about this homicide investigation is asked to call Major Crimes Detective A. Sleem at (804) 814-7123 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Advisory: Midlothian Turnpike Homicide Investigation

 

August 11, 2025     

Midlothian Turnpike Homicide Investigation                       

Today at approximately 8:44 a.m., officers were called to the 6600 block of Midlothian Turnpike for the report of a person shot. Officers arrived and located an adult female, inside of a motel room with an apparent gunshot wound. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information about this homicide investigation is asked to call Major Crimes Detective G. Sullivan at (804) 646-3929 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Victim and Shooter Identified in East Grace Street Homicide Investigation

Victim and Shooter Identified in East Grace Street Homicide Investigation

The victim and shooter involved in the East Grace Street homicide have succumbed to their injuries and Richmond Police detectives are now able to confirm their identities to the public.

The victim has been identified as Adam Turck, 35, of Richmond.

The shooter has been identified as Destin Grady, 19, of Richmond.

On Saturday at approximately 10:17 a.m., officers were called to the 2000 block of East Grace Street for a domestic call. An officer arrived and found two adult males, down and unresponsive, both suffering from gunshot wounds. They were transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Detectives have determined Grady was in a confrontation with a known adult female on the sidewalk in front of an apartment building. This argument generated 911 calls for a violent domestic situation. The other male, Turck, was passing the confrontation while walking his dog and attempted to intervene in the dispute. Grady produced a firearm from his backpack and shot Turck and then shot himself.

Anyone with further information is asked to call Major Crimes Detective J. Higgins (804) 646-7570 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

RPD Response to Federal Appeals Court Reversal of Ruling

RPD Response to Federal Appeals Court Reversal of Ruling

Last week, a ruling by the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit reversed a controversial ruling by a U.S. District Court judge that had accused the Richmond Police Department of discriminatory traffic stop practices.

In the order last week, the three-judge panel stated, “We reverse the order of the district judge and remand with instructions to reinstate the indictment.”

Further the order states, “…there is complete absence of evidence that the officers acted with discriminatory purpose.”

The order added that the panel found, “…no evidence of racial animus on the part of police officers.”

And, “…the police essentially treated him with great respect.”

This case began with a traffic stop in 2020, when officers observed a vehicle operating with a known fraudulent temporary tag. Officers concluded it was a fake tag because in the preceding hours, officers had stopped two other vehicles with the identical temporary tag number. Following a traffic stop where the driver fled on foot and officers caught and detained him, a firearm was recovered from his vehicle. He was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. A federal grand jury subsequently indicted the individual for that violation.

During hearings to suppress the evidence recovered due to alleged discriminatory practices and the claim of the violation of the defendant’s rights, the court authorized further investigation and briefing. The court, following the conclusion of hearings and testimony, dismissed the defendant’s indictment on the ground that it was a product of selective law enforcement against Black drivers.

In the Court of Appeals reversal, the panel wrote, “No aspect of this sequence suggests that race played a role in the decision to initiate the traffic stop.”

The panel observed portions of testimony from a defense expert witness were, “virtually irrelevant.”

As for the obvious probable cause to stop the driver with a fraudulent tag, “…we expect that the public would be surprised had the officers not stopped [the defendant] in the circumstances provided.”

“While we are gratified by the ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, our deep appreciation is first directed to the courageous and determined work by former U.S. Attorney Jessica Aber and her team, whose spirited decision to move forward with this appeal produced these just results,” said RPD Chief Rick Edwards. “Former U.S. Attorney Aber sadly passed away earlier this year, but she has left a legacy of justice and fairness. This case and the confounding first ruling delivered a significant blow to the morale of our department and to the noble profession of policing in general. As we move forward with our overarching goal of a safer Richmond for all, we restate our solemn vow of policing always in good faith. We applaud the order of the Court of Appeals and encourage any interested person to read the order in full."

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit opinion: https://www.ca4.uscourts.gov/opinions/244201.P.pdf

Admiral Gravely Boulevard Shooting Investigation

Admiral Gravely Boulevard Shooting Investigation

 

Richmond Police Department detectives are investigating a shooting this morning that injured a 12-year-old female. A family member, a 15-year-old male, has been charged in connection with the shooting.

 

At approximately 1:24 a.m., officers were called to the 1200 block of Admiral Gravely Boulevard for a call of a shooting. Officers arrived and found a juvenile female who was suffering from a gunshot wound. She was transported to a local hospital with injuries that are considered life threatening.

 

The 15-year-old family member was detained at the scene. Detectives arrived and are investigating this as a possible accidental shooting but continue to investigate. The juvenile male has been charged with reckless handling of a firearm and possession of a firearm by a minor. Additional charges are possible following further investigation.

 

“I cannot begin to imagine the pain the family is experiencing,” said Chief Rick Edwards, “but firearms in the hands of young people is a recipe for tragedy, pain and loss. I urge everyone with a firearm to secure it properly – and take whatever steps necessary to ensure our young people do not have access to firearms.”

 

The RPD distributes free gun safes to Richmond residents. To request a free gun safe call (804) 516-0451.

 

The investigation continues. Anyone with information is asked to call Major Crimes Detective S. Brown (804) 646-6456 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

 

Update: East Grace Street Shooting Investigation

Update: East Grace Street Shooting Investigation

 

Richmond Police Department detectives continue to investigate the double shooting that occurred on Grace Street on Saturday.

 

On Saturday at approximately 10:17 a.m., officers were called to the 2000 block of East Grace Street for a domestic call. An officer arrived and found two adult males, down and unresponsive, both suffering from gunshot wounds. They were transported to a local hospital with injuries that remain life threatening.

 

Detectives responded and have determined a male, 19, was in a confrontation with a known adult female on the sidewalk in front of an apartment building. This argument generated 911 calls for a violent domestic situation. The other male, 35, was passing the confrontation while walking his dog and attempted to intervene in the dispute. The 19-year-old male produced a firearm from his backpack and shot the man and then shot himself.

 

The officer arrived just three-and-a-half minutes after the initial call of domestic violence and did not discharge his service weapon.

 

The dog was transported to Richmond Animal Care and Control and has now been returned to a family member.

 

“This is a tragic story of gun violence against a person who was simply trying to de-escalate a disturbing argument,” said Chief Rick Edwards. “This is a heartbreaking reminder that we must, as a community, continue to combat gun violence in our society.”

 

The investigation continues. Anyone with further information is asked to call Major Crimes Detective J. Higgins (804) 646-7570 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Advisory: Arrest Made in Abduction Investigation on Commerce Road

 July 31, 2025

 

Arrest Made in Abduction Investigation on Commerce Road

Today at approximately 7:22 a.m., officers were called to the 2700 block of Commerce Road for the report of an abduction. 

Officers arrived on scene and were advised that an adult female was forced into a silver-colored vehicle at gunpoint by an adult male. 

An investigation was initiated by multiple units within RPD with the assistance of the Metro Aviation Unit and the US Marshal’s Task Force which led to the successful apprehension of the suspect and the victim was rescued. 

The female was assaulted during this incident and was transported to a local hospital with injuries not considered to be life threatening. The male was also transported for minor injuries.

Detectives have determined that this incident is domestic-related. Charges are pending, and this investigation continues.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Major Crimes Detective D. Longoria at (804) 646-6759 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Activity Today in Richmond Neighborhood / Actividad confirmada del Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas (ICE) de EE UU en Vecindario de Richmond

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Activity Today in Richmond Neighborhood

 

This morning at approximately 7:03 a.m., Richmond Police Department officers were dispatched to the 1500 block of Clarkson Road for the report of a missing person, an adult male. When officers arrived they observed agents of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement were operating in the area of the Southwood neighborhood.

 

RPD officers consulted with the agents who confirmed the subject of the missing person report was in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. RPD officers contacted the individual who reported the male missing to advise that the male was in federal custody.

 

RPD did not participate in the activity of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement as is standard practice for the Richmond Police Department.

 

To locate a detained individual, use the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Online Detainee Locator System: https://locator.ice.gov/odls/#/search

 

 

Actividad confirmada del Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas (ICE) de EE UU en Vecindario de Richmond

 

Esta mañana alrededor de las 7:03 a.m. oficiales del Depto. de Policía de Richmond (RPD) respondieron a un reporte de una persona extraviada, un hombre adulto, en la cuadra de 1500 Clarkson Road. Al llegar los oficiales, observaron la presencia de agentes del Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas (ICE) de Estado Unidos en el vecindario de Southwood.

 

Los oficiales de RPD consultaron con los agentes, quienes confirmaron la detención y custodia de la persona reportada como extraviada. Oficiales de RPD prosiguieron a contactar al individuo que hizo el reporte para notificarle que dicho hombre estaba en custodia de agentes federales.

 

De acuerdo con las normas de la Ciudad, el Departamento de Policía de Richmond no participó en la actividad de ICE.

 

Para localizar a cualquier persona detenida por ICE, use el sistema de localización del Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas de los Estados Unidos: https://locator.ice.gov/odls/#/search

 

 

Pedestrian Identified in Fatal Collision on Bells Road

Pedestrian Identified in Fatal Collision on Bells Road

The Richmond Police Department Crash Team has identified the pedestrian involved in the fatal collision on Bells Road last night as Angela Gibbs, 41, of Richmond.

Yesterday at approximately 10:53 p.m., officers were called to the 2900 block of Bells Road for the report of a vehicle striking a pedestrian. Officers arrived and found an adult female, Gibbs, down and unresponsive in the roadway. She was transported to a local hospital where last night she succumbed to her injuries.

The RPD Crash Team responded to the scene and determined Gibbs was walking in the roadway when she was struck by a vehicle. Two persons were in the striking vehicle and they remained at the scene.

The RPD Crash Team continues to investigate. At this time, charges have not been filed.

Anyone with information about this collision is asked to contact RPD Crash Team Investigator D. Olson at (804) 646-1664 or call Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used.  All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

 

Advisory: Victim Identified in Mosby Street Homicide Investigation

  July 21, 2025

Victim Identified in Mosby Street Homicide Investigation

                              

Richmond Police detectives have identified the victim in the Mosby Street homicide investigation as Elwood Robinson, Jr., 40, of Richmond.

At approximately 10:47 p.m., Friday, July 18, officers were called to the 600 block of Mosby Street for the report of a person shot. Officers arrived and located an adult male, Robinson, down on the ground suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead.

The Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information about this homicide investigation is asked to call Major Crimes Detective A. Darnell at (804) 646-3927 or call Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Advisory: Hull Street Death Investigation

 

July 14, 2025            

Hull Street Death Investigation                          

Today at approximately 1:37 p.m., officers were called to the 700 block of Hull Street for the report of a person down. Officers arrived and located an adult male.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

This is an ongoing investigation.

The Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information about this death investigation is asked to call Detective G. Sullivan at (804) 646-3929 or call Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Victim Identified in Rosecrest Avenue Homicide Investigation

   July 9, 2025 

Victim Identified in Rosecrest Avenue Homicide Investigation

                              

Richmond Police detectives have identified the victim in the Rosecrest Avenue homicide investigation as Teresa Jackson, 64, of Richmond.

Yesterday at approximately 7:41 a.m., officers were called to the 1600 block of Rosecrest Avenue for a welfare check. Officers arrived and located an adult female, Jackson, inside the residence, down and unresponsive, having suffered an apparent gunshot wound. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information about this homicide investigation is asked to call Major Crimes Detective G. Russell at (804) 646-7715 or call Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

ATF Access to RPD License Plate Readers Terminated

 ATF Access to RPD License Plate Readers Terminated

 

In June, administrators of the Richmond Police Department’s license plate reader program learned an analyst with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives had been granted access to the RPD system and had made queries for immigration enforcement in violation of RPD’s operational standards. The ATF analyst’s access was immediately terminated and, moving forward, no federal agencies will have access to RPD’s license plate reader program.

 

“ATF is a valued partner in our efforts to combat violent crime in Richmond. But their analyst should not have been granted access to our system — and absolutely should not have used it for immigration enforcement purposes,” said RPD Chief Rick Edwards. “I’ve been clear with the public, with city leadership, and within this department: the Richmond Police Department does not enforce federal immigration law, and we do not investigate a person’s immigration status. If ATF had formally requested access for that purpose, I would have denied it.”

 

Facts and details:

 

• The ATF analyst requested access to the RPD license plate reader program on February 7, 2025, to “assist our agents and TFOs [Task Force Officers] with investigations in and around Richmond.”
• At that time of their request, the ATF was not actively involved with immigration enforcement.
• The RPD administrator of the program granted access to the ATF analyst.
• The RPD administrator of the program has since separated from the department.
• In March 2025, the mission of the ATF changed to include immigration enforcement.
• In early March, four detainees from an ICE detention facility in Farmville, Virginia escaped. In the effort to assist the investigation, the ATF analyst made numerous inquiries to RPD’s license plate reader program in an effort to apprehend the escapees.
• Overall, the ATF analyst queried 49 unique license plates receiving over 400 results to those inquiries.  Over a quarter of the results received related to the incident in Farmville. 
• The cases involved in the ATF analyst’s queries were a mixture of a) cases that the ATF traditionally investigates with RPD and other partners, e.g. firearms offenses and/or violent crime, regardless of a subject’s immigration status (35 of the 49 unique license plates) and b) cases that Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) pursues regarding immigration enforcement (14 of the 49 unique license plates).  According to the ATF, all of those cases in the second group involved individuals that had committed a crime or had a criminal background.
• The analyst did not include the name of the state for a license plate query which produced a result from a different state for the same license plate numbers and letters. According to the ATF, all queries made using the system were for investigations in the state of Virginia. Pursuant to the new Virginia law taking effect on July 1, 2025, other states no longer have connections to Virginia license plate information.
• On June 11, the new RPD administrator received an alert from Flock Safety, the vendor of the license plate readers, that two searches from the ATF analyst inadvertently accessed Illinois vehicle data with “ICE” in the query field which is a violation of Illinois law.
• Within five minutes of the new RPD administrator recognizing the ATF analyst had access to the RPD system and was using it in violation to RPD guidelines, the administrator terminated the ATF analyst’s access to the system.
• An immediate audit was conducted to ensure no other federal partner or other user outside of RPD personnel had access to the license plate reader program. No other user was found to have access.
• The new administrator began an internal investigation on how and when access was granted to the ATF analyst by the previous, departed manager.
• Last Wednesday, RPD received a media request to discuss “a set of Flock license plate searches the Richmond PD ran from around March 31- April 9, 2025. These searches show ‘ICE’ in the Flock Safety audit log Reason field.” Upon receiving this request, a more comprehensive investigation was conducted by RPD leadership.
• ATF officials were invited to Richmond Police Headquarters to discuss the matter. Yesterday, the ATF officials and the ATF analyst met with Chief Edwards and senior command staff. ATF agreed to provide more data on the searches they conducted.
• ATF states that no apprehensions occurred solely off the information obtained by the ATF analyst using the RPD license plate reader technology. 

 

“We value our partnership with the Richmond Police Department and regret that this situation occurred,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood. “Our ATF analyst accessed RPD’s system in support of ATF’s overall mission and although all the queries involved criminal activity, they were not in compliance with RPD’s guidelines. While our investigative analysts support both criminal and immigration-related efforts, the majority of these searches were directly tied to local investigations involving gun trafficking, violent offenders, and fraudulent firearms purchases. In one instance, a potential residency violation may have prompted the use of ‘ICE’ in a search field — but all queries were related to criminal activity, not civil immigration enforcement.”

 

“It is frustrating this occurred. However, I appreciate ATF’s willingness to acknowledge what happened and clarify the nature of the searches,” said Chief Edwards. “We remain committed to working with our federal partners on the investigation and prosecution of violent crime. But moving forward, no federal agencies will have access to our license plate reader program. This tool is vital to solving serious crimes in our city, and we will ensure it is used lawfully, responsibly, and in alignment with Richmond’s values.”

 

 

Rosecrest Avenue Homicide Investigation

Rosecrest Avenue Homicide Investigation

 

Today at approximately 7:41 a.m., officers were called to the 1600 block of Rosecrest Avenue for a welfare check. Officers arrived and located an adult female inside the residence, down and unresponsive, having suffered an apparent gunshot wound. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

The Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.

 

Anyone with information about this homicide investigation is asked to call Major Crimes Detective G. Russell at (804) 646-7715 or call Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

 

Chief Edwards to Hold Briefing to Discuss Mid-Year Crime Stats

Chief Edwards to Hold Briefing to Discuss Mid-Year Crime Stats

 

WHAT:             Public Safety Mid-Year Briefing to the Community

 

WHEN:              10 a.m., THURSDAY, July 10, 2025 

 

WHERE:           The briefing location is at RPD Headquarters, 200 W. Grace St.

 

Chief of Police Rick Edwards will address statistics from crimes that occurred in the first half of 2025 that impacted the public, department operations and current topics of interest.

 

BACKGROUND:    

This crime briefing will inform the community of crime trends impacting public safety, provide an update on Operation Safe Summer, a multi-jurisdictional operation, share information on recent arrests, and offer opportunities for members of the public to engage in upcoming community events to participate in a joint effort to reduce crime.

 

Media is invited to attend.

 

Fourth of July Road Closures and No Parking Zones

Fourth of July Road Closures and No Parking Zones

The Fourth of July celebration at Byrd Park will bring changes to traffic with numerous road closures and “No Parking” zones in effect on Friday, July 4.

The Fourth of July concert and fireworks show at the Dogwood Dell Amphitheater from the Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities will impact roads in the area from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. All times are subject to change. Several roads in Byrd Park will be closed and parking will not be permitted. The weekend vehicle entrance closures in Byrd Park will be in effect through Friday, July 4. Other streets in the Byrd Park and Carillon neighborhoods will have restricted parking. The Boulevard (Nickel) Bridge will be closed to vehicles to accommodate the event.

Victim Identified in Rosecrest Avenue Homicide Investigation

June 24, 2025

 

Victim Identified in Rosecrest Avenue Homicide Investigation                              

Richmond Police detectives have identified the victim in the shooting that occurred last week on Rosecrest Avenue, which has now resulted in a homicide, as Rashad Baylor, 47, of Richmond.

At approximately 9:56 p.m., Wednesday, June 18, officers were called to the 1600 block of Rosecrest Avenue for the report of a person shot. Officers arrived and located an adult male, Baylor, down on the ground with an apparent gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital with injuries considered to be life threatening. On Friday, June 20, Baylor succumbed to his injuries while at the hospital. 

The Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death. 

Anyone with information about this homicide is asked to call Major Crimes Detective C. Tovar at (804) 646-6739 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Pedestrian Identified in Broad Rock Boulevard Fatal Collision

Pedestrian Identified in Broad Rock Boulevard Fatal Collision

The Richmond Police Department’s Crash Team investigators have identified the male pedestrian who was killed in the fatal crash that occurred yesterday on Broad Rock Boulevard as Oswaldo Garcia Perez, 56, of Richmond.

At approximately 9:13 p.m., officers were called to the 2600 block of Broad Rock Boulevard for the report of pedestrian struck by a vehicle. Officers arrived and found the male, Garcia Perez, down and injured in the roadway. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.

The driver of the striking vehicle remained at the scene and called 911.

The RPD Crash Team responded to the scene and determined the pedestrian was crossing the roadway in the middle of the block when he was struck by the vehicle in the travel lane.

Anyone with further information about this incident is asked to contact RPD Crash Team Investigator J. Ozolins at (804) 646-8671 or call Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used. All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

 

Se identifica el peatón del atropellamiento fatal en Broad Rock Boulevard

 Se identifica el peatón del atropellamiento fatal en Broad Rock Boulevard

Los investigadores del Equipo de Accidentes del Departamento de Policía de Richmond (RPD) han identificado al peatón que murió en el accidente que ocurrió ayer en Broad Rock Boulevard como Oswaldo García Pérez, de 56 años, habitante de Richmond.

Aproximadamente a las 9:13 p.m., los agentes fueron llamados a la cuadra 2600 de Broad Rock Boulevard, debido al reporte de un peatón atropellado por un vehículo. Los agentes llegaron y encontraron a García Pérez tendido y herido en la calle. Fue transportado a un hospital local donde fue declarado muerto.

El médico forense determinará la causa y la manera de la muerte.

El conductor del vehículo que lo atropelló permaneció en el lugar y llamó al 911.

El Equipo de Accidentes de la policía respondió a la escena y determinó que el peatón estaba cruzando la calzada en medio de la cuadra cuando fue atropellado por el vehículo en el carril de circulación.

Se pide a cualquier persona que tenga más información sobre este incidente que se comunique con el investigador del equipo de accidentes de RPD, J. Ozolins, al (804) 646-8671 o llame a Crime Stoppers al (804) 780-1000. También se puede utilizar la aplicación móvil P3 Tips Crime Stoppers. Todos los métodos de Crime Stoppers son anónimos.

Advisory: Angela Drive Death Investigation

 

June 10, 2025          

 

Angela Drive Death Investigation

                                       

Today at approximately 3:15 p.m., officers were called to the 3700 block of Angela Drive for a welfare check. Officers arrived and located an adult male and female down inside a structure, each suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Both persons were pronounced dead at the scene.

This investigation is on-going, detectives are not looking for any suspects at this time.

The Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information about this death investigation is asked to call Detective B. Plaskett at (804) 646-3431 or call Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Advisory: Person of Interest Sought in Coalter Street Homicide Investigation

 

June 5, 2025                                                

Person of Interest Sought in Coalter Street Homicide Investigation 

Richmond Police detectives are asking for the public’s assistance in locating this individual who is a person of interest in a homicide investigation that occurred last month.

Adwin Zuri, 38, of Charles City, is a person of interest in relation to the homicide of Terrence Smith that occurred in the 1300 block of Coalter Street. Photo attached.

At approximately 11:00 a.m., Sunday, May 18th, officers were called to the 1300 block of Coalter Street for the report of a shooting. Officers arrived and located an adult male, Smith, in a residence down with apparent gunshot wounds. The victim succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Detectives with the Major Crimes division are investigating.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Zuri is asked to call Major Crimes Detective K. Hyde at (804) 938-5590 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

     

Victim Identified in Chamberlayne Avenue Crash and Homicide

Victim Identified in Chamberlayne Avenue Crash and Homicide

Richmond Police detectives have identified the victim in the shooting and crash investigation on Chamberlayne Avenue this morning as Antonio Nixon, 45, of Richmond.

At approximately 1:38 a.m., officers were called to the 2300 block of Chamberlayne Avenue for the report of a crash with an injury. Officers arrived and located an adult male, Nixon, the driver and sole occupant of a vehicle, which had collided with a tree and structure after leaving the roadway northbound near West Graham Road. He was unresponsive and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The RPD Crash Team responded to the scene to investigate. During the investigation, a bullet hole was located on the vehicle. The Major Crimes Division responded and determined Nixon had suffered an apparent gunshot wound.

The Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information about this homicide investigation is asked to call Major Crimes Detective P. Torres at (804) 646-3930 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.