Police say additional arrests may follow as investigation into March 7 gunfire continues.
Virginia Beach, VA – A fourth suspect has been arrested in connection with a shooting along Atlantic Avenue that left six people injured earlier this month, according to Virginia Beach police, who say the investigation remains active and could lead to additional charges.
Key Points
- Fourth suspect arrested in March 7 Oceanfront shooting that injured six people
- Police say suspects were “shooting at each other” when bystanders were hit
- Investigation remains ongoing with potential for more arrests
The Virginia Beach Police Department announced that Alex G. Scott Jr., 20, of Norfolk, was arrested Wednesday for his alleged role in the March 7 shooting in the 1800 block of Atlantic Avenue.
Police said Scott faces multiple charges, including attempted robbery, conspiracy to commit robbery, five counts of aggravated malicious wounding, one count of malicious wounding, eight counts of using a firearm in the commission of a felony, attempted malicious wounding, and six counts of felony reckless handling of a firearm.
In a statement, police emphasized that “the charges mentioned…are accusations, and the arrested individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.”
Multiple suspects charged in expanding case
Scott’s arrest follows earlier charges filed against three other suspects in the case. On March 11, police arrested Jamari D. Horton, 22, of Chesapeake, and Andrew P. Anthony, 19, of Norfolk. Both face charges nearly identical to those filed against Scott, including attempted robbery, conspiracy, and multiple firearm-related offenses.
Days earlier, on March 8, authorities also arrested Matheus F. Cavalcante, 18, of Norfolk, who was charged with five counts of aggravated malicious wounding, one count of malicious wounding, and multiple firearm-related offenses.
Police said at the time that “additional arrests are anticipated,” signaling the scope of the ongoing investigation.
Shooting unfolded on busy Oceanfront night
The incident occurred at approximately 9:52 p.m. on Friday, March 7, when officers patrolling the Oceanfront heard gunfire and responded to the area.
According to police, “officers converged on the scene, ultimately locating five individuals believed to be suffering from gunshot wounds.” A sixth victim was later identified after arriving at a hospital.
Authorities said all victims—ranging in age from 18 to 24—suffered non-life-threatening injuries and are expected to recover.
Investigators determined that “two male suspects were shooting at each other when other individuals were struck by the gunfire,” turning the crowded Oceanfront area into an active and chaotic scene.
Police cite ongoing concerns about gun violence
Virginia Beach Police Chief Paul Neudigate addressed the broader concerns tied to the incident, noting the challenges of maintaining safety in high-traffic entertainment areas.
“As this was the first warm night of the year, we anticipated increased crowds and juvenile activity in the Resort Area,” Neudigate said. “As a result, we deployed over 50 additional officers to the area Saturday night to augment the normal staffing for a weekend night.”
He added, “Police presence and visibility, even in large numbers, is no longer a sufficient deterrent for some of the individuals that frequent our Resort Area that are willing to resort to a gun to resolve conflict.”
Public asked to assist investigation
Police continue to urge anyone with information or video footage related to the shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted by calling (757) 385-4101 or anonymously through Crime Solvers at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP or P3Tips.com.
“This is still an ongoing investigation,” the department said in its latest update.