VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Virginia Beach police say a teenage boy is dead after a shooting Tuesday afternoon.
Police responded to the 1000 block of Bryce Lane for a report of a gunshot victim just before 4 p.m. When officers arrived, they found a 16-year-old boy dead at the scene.
Another 16-year-old boy has been arrested and charged. The teen suspect is charged with first-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
Neighbors said they heard the gunshots and saw the scene from their front doors.
"One neighbor went up to him and kept saying 'keep your eyes open, keep your eyes open,"' said Jessica Hunley. "It's just so sad because they were the only comfort he had before he died."
Within hours of the arrest, Virginia Beach Police Chief Paul Neudigate denounced the violence happening in the resort city.
Virginia Beach Police said the incident marked the 6th homicide in the city, and the 2nd homicide to result in a minor's death this year.
“A 16-year-old losing their life to another 16-year-old with a gun; we cannot accept this as the normal for our community, but unfortunately this is the reality”, said Police Chief Paul Neudigate.
“The abundance of unsecured firearms in homes and unlocked vehicles allows easy access to those who should not possess them. I urge parents and guardians to actively check their children’s rooms and belongings for firearms, and if found, surrender them to the appropriate authorities. Please help us be proactive in saving lives.”
Virginia Beach Police said they do not plan on releasing the names of the victim, or the suspect, because both are minors. They could not comment if the two knew each other before the shooting, or what could have led up to it.
The arrested teen faced a judge for the first time on Wednesday, he is expected back in court on May 9th.
If you or anyone you know has information that will assist the police, they are encouraged to contact the Virginia Beach Police Department or leave an anonymous tip at P3Tips.com.