Portsmouth police seek public's help in 2015 cold case murder of emily spence

Portsmouth Police Seek Public’s Help in 2015 Cold Case Murder of Emily Spence

January 18, 2024

PORTSMOUTH, VA – The Portsmouth Police Department is renewing its appeal to the public for assistance in a cold case homicide investigation. The case concerns the death of Emily Spence, which occurred on April 13, 2015, at approximately 2:15 p.m.

On that day, Portsmouth Emergency Communication received a 911 call requesting police and medical assistance at 1900 Holladay St. due to a gunshot wound incident. Upon arrival, police found an unresponsive female, later identified as Emily Spence, who had suffered an apparent gunshot wound. Despite efforts, Spence succumbed to her injuries.

Portsmouth Police detectives are actively investigating this homicide and are seeking information regarding 32-year-old Vincent Roderick Taylor, Jr. Taylor is identified as a person of interest and is needed for questioning in relation to this case. He is described as a black male, 5’8” tall, and weighing 170 lbs.

The Portsmouth Police Department encourages anyone with information about Vincent Roderick Taylor, Jr., or any details pertaining to the homicide of Emily Spence, to come forward. This information could be crucial in providing closure to a case that has remained unsolved for several years.

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News