HAMPTON, Va. — Cameras are up at Buckroe Beach for the first time. They went up in time for the Fourth of July weekend, days after a shooting at the beach that sent four people to the hospital, including two kids.
This is the first time that the Hampton Police Division has installed cameras on the property and these cameras will act as another resource to aid officers in responding to incidents more efficiently and deliberately with emphasis on community safety.
Duchess Sicay has lived at Buckroe Beach for almost eight years. She has six grandchildren and loves to bring them to the park and beach.
She recalls the shooting on June 22. She wasn't home at the time but could later see crime scene tape from her home.
“It was scary,” Sicay said.
Hampton Police Chief Terry Sult said they partner with businesses to integrate cameras at various locations. He said one place they didn't have any cameras was Buckroe Beach.
“They will be helpful. They are not a solution to all problems, but they are a resource,” Sult said.
There are four surveillance cameras up now on the boardwalk. Sicay said the cameras didn't come as a surprise.
“Our neighbors called and emailed recommending cameras, asking why they aren’t here,” Sicay said.
Sicay believes the new cameras are necessary but is pushing for more.
“Four or five isn't enough they will need more, and I think it's a great investment,” Sicay said.
Police arrested a 15-year-old in connection with the June 22 shooting, and officers are searching for one more suspect.