NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — A man died after a shooting at an apartment complex in Newport News early Monday morning, police said.
At around 1:00 a.m., officers were dispatched to 700 Waterfront Circle, the Ivy Towers apartment building, for a report of a person lying in front of a building.
When they got to the scene, they found a man suffering from what appeared to be a "life-threatening gunshot wound." The victim was taken to the hospital, but according to Police Chief Steve Drew, he died from his injuries. He was identified as Ashford Aaron Carter, 30.
The Newport News Police Department said Quashawn Lamonte Cooper, 30, was taken into custody. He's been charged with second-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
“I normally walk out of here peaceful, happy," said Sararita Clark, who lives at the apartment building. "I don’t know what’s going on now.”
This morning, her mood shifted after waking up to a crime scene outside her apartment complex. Clark said she received texts from loved ones early this morning asking if she’s okay.
“I was like ‘Huh?’" she said. "Then, I looked out the window and was like ‘Oh my goodness. What is going on?’ This is too much. I don’t feel safe anymore.”
Neighbors in Newport News were left disturbed and confused after police found a man shot outside the apartment building Monday. Some residents say they avoid this area after dark because of crime. One man who did not want to be identified says he knows residents who live in Ivy Towers and hopes they're ok.
Clark said crime in this neighborhood doesn’t surprise her. Though, she wants to see change.
“I feel if we have security in here, it’d be a little bit safer,” Clark said. “Who wants to see police all the time? Who wants to see the ambulance all the time? Who wants to live like that? No one wants to live like that.”
When asked about security measures at the apartment building, a manager at Ivy Towers said they have no comment.
Those with information regarding this incident should call 911 or the non-emergency number at (757) 247–2500. You may also provide information anonymously by calling the Crime Line at 1–888–562–5887 or online at p3tips.com.