Shotspotter alert leads police to armed suspect facing multiple felony charges
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ShotSpotter alert leads police to armed suspect facing multiple felony charges

by
July 9, 2026
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A gunfire detection alert sent officers to a Virginia Beach neighborhood, where they say they recovered a firearm and arrested a 19-year-old man.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — A ShotSpotter alert in the early morning hours led to the arrest of a 19-year-old Virginia Beach man on multiple firearm and drug charges, according to the Virginia Beach Police Department.

The incident occurred at approximately 2:45 a.m. on July 5 in the 1500 block of Dahlia Drive.

After responding to the ShotSpotter alert, officers canvassed the area and located Demario Burden, 19, of Virginia Beach. Police said a firearm was recovered at the scene.

Burden has been charged with possession of a firearm while in possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to sell, give or distribute a controlled substance, willfully discharging a firearm within 1,000 feet of a school, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, carrying a loaded firearm through a public space, carrying a concealed firearm without a permit and reckless handling of a firearm.

He was transported to the Virginia Beach City Jail, where he is being held without bond.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Virginia Beach Police Department Detective Bureau at (757) 385-4101 or Crime Solvers at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP.

The charges are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Key Points

  • A ShotSpotter alert led to the arrest of a 19-year-old in Virginia Beach.
  • Police recovered a firearm and filed multiple firearm and drug charges.
  • The suspect is being held without bond as the investigation continues.
Local News Report

Local News Report

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