Reports emerged on Tuesday of a shooter near Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), situated in Richmond. At least 7 injuries have been confirmed thus far. Despite the initial chaos, authorities have confirmed there is no continued risk to the local populace. An urgent notification was sent out by VCU advising its students about the police presence prompted by a shooting close to Monroe Park, a historical city landmark around the university grounds. The University advised all individuals to steer clear of the area surrounding the park.
RPD is on scene for a shooting located at Laurel Street and Franklin Street. Multiple injuries reported. There is no immediate threat to the public.
Briefing to follow. Avoid the area.Follow our page for the latest updates on this incident.
— Richmond Police (@RichmondPolice) June 6, 2023
A subsequent update confirmed that both Richmond and VCU Police Departments had responded to the incident and declared that the situation was no longer a threat. It was announced that the Richmond Police would be overseeing the investigation. The incident reportedly occurred following a graduation ceremony at Huguenot High School, as announced by Richmond Public Schools on its online platform. The institution further stated that, as a precautionary measure, all its schools will remain closed on the upcoming Wednesday.
The Interim Police Chief of Richmond stated that two suspects were taken into custody following the events that occurred.
1/2 HERE'S THE INFORMATION… on the 13 people injured in today's shooting at Monroe Park on the campus of VCU here in Richmond, Virginia.
The interim chief says:
-7 people were shot
-4 of them have NON-life threatening injuries
-3 have life threatening injuries @NBC12 pic.twitter.com/WbE4rkNvSA— Simone Cuccurullo (@SimoneNBC12) June 7, 2023
As of 8:03 CT, the interim police chief confirmed that two victims have passed away. The suspect in custody is a 19-year-old male who is believed to have known one of the victims, and two second-degree murder charges will be pursued pending further investigation. More info is set to be released tomorrow by the local authorities.
