HAMPTON, Va. — Authorities are searching for a man accused of maiming a 17-year-old girl in Hampton and fleeing the scene Sunday night.
The incident unfolded at around 8:30 p.m. when investigators say an unknown man approached the victim in the 800 block of Langley Avenue. The two exchanged a few words before the suspect shot the teen and fled, according to the Hampton Police Division.
The victim was rushed to a hospital for treatment but is expected to survive.
Neighbors told 13News Now that violence like this makes them think twice about children's safety while outside on their own.
“It was shocking," said Lafayette Chisman, who lives near the crime scene. "A lot of kids get off the bus and walk past my house every evening. I sure don’t want to see that to happen anymore, not in this neighborhood anyway."
Neighbor Aaron Hawkins shared similar sentiments, saying his daughter just turned 15.
“It’s scary. It’s sad. The world we live in now is just sad that your kids can’t even come outside and play,” said Hawkins.
No suspect description was provided.
Police urge anyone with information to call 757–727–6111 or the Crime Line at 1–888-LOCK-U-UP. Anonymous tips can be made online at P3Tips.com.