NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — A suspect wanted in the murder of a 35-year-old woman in Newport News has been apprehended, police said.
Ronald Brown, 35, was charged with first-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The Newport News Police Department said he was found Thursday in Hopewell, Virginia, which is near Petersburg.
"This was a local, state, and federal effort," said Newport News Police Chief Steve Drew. "I'm incredibly proud of all parts that participated in bringing this suspect in."
The shooting happened Aug. 3 on 33rd Street. When officers arrived, they found 35-year-old Tahesha Saunders of Newport News outside of a home suffering from multiple gunshot wound.
She was pronounced deceased at the scene. Police at the time said that the incident appeared to be domestic in nature, and was captured on video by surveillance cameras in the area.
"It's a senseless act of violence, a domestic violence type of situation, that left several children without a mother," said Drew.
More than a month after the shooting, investigators received a tip about the suspect's location in Hopewell. Drew remained tight lipped about how the tip came in, but credited investigators and technology.
Drew said detectives took Brown into custody without incident in Hopewell, and is now facing three felonies including first-degree murder and gun charges.
Drew called the victim's mother afterwards as detectives brought Brown back to Newport News Jail.
"It was a hard phone call to have with Ms. Saunders this morning, and just really reaching out to check on her and the kids she is now taking care of," said Drew.
Brown is being held without bond. He is expected back in court on Sept. 22.