PORTSMOUTH, Va. — Portsmouth Police Chief Stephen Jenkins denounced a shooting that claimed the life of a 10-year-old boy Friday evening.
"He was an innocent bystander struck by a stray bullet that came through the window of his home," Chief Jenkins told 13News Now.
In an emailed statement on Saturday, Chief Jenkins said he met with the victim's family about the tragic shooting.
"I met with the mother and extended family of the young boy, whose life was tragically taken, and they were distraught over their son’s death," the statement reads. "As the top officer of the Portsmouth Police Department, I am outraged over another young life taken over neighborhood disputes, where juveniles turn to guns to settle differences. As the Chief of Police, I can assure you that we are doing—and will do-- everything we can to find everyone responsible for the loss of this young life and let the perpetrators have their day in court."
The shooting happened on Farragut Street between Alden and Bainbridge avenues just before 6:15 p.m. Friday.
Responding officers took life-saving measures to treat the boy's wounds, police said. The boy was taken to a hospital where he ultimately died.
"This tragedy was the result of a dispute between teenage girls that erupted into a scenario of irreparable violence," said Chief Jenkins.
Residents in the area told 13News Now on Friday that they saw someone running from the scene.
Portsmouth Mayor Shannon Glover called on residents to watch out for each other and for younger community members to put down their firearms.
"Any violence at any time is always going to be unacceptable in the city of Portsmouth. We love you and we need you put the guns down and seek another means of resolving any issues that you may have," Glover told 13News Now.
Later Saturday night, hours after 13News Now spoke with city leaders, the Portsmouth Police Department (PPD) announced 31-year-old Shawnday Nakisha Ross in connection to the shooting on a charge of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
PPD's Major Crimes Unit is handling the homicide investigation. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or have any information about it is urged to call investigators at 757-393-8536 or leave an anonymous tip by either calling the Crime Line at 1-888-562-5887 or online at P3tips.com.
This is the 19th homicide in the city of Portsmouth so far in 2024. It's the same amount the city had recorded this time last year.