Multiple arrests follow a late-night exchange of gunfire that left eight people wounded along the Oceanfront corridor.
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – A second suspect is now in custody following a shooting on Atlantic Avenue that left eight people injured, as police continue to piece together what led to gunfire between two groups of young people last weekend. The Virginia Beach Police Department announced Friday that Ja’Quarrias Morris, 20, of Lancaster, was arrested in connection with the April 11 incident.
The arrest comes days after officers responded to gunfire around 9:50 p.m. in the 1400 block of Atlantic Avenue, where eight victims were found with gunshot wounds. All were transported to local hospitals with injuries ranging from non-life-threatening to serious, and all are expected to survive.
Charges filed against second suspect
According to VBPD, Morris faces seven counts of aggravated malicious wounding, seven counts of use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and seven counts of reckless handling of a firearm with injury. Police said, “On April 16, 2026, the Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) arrested Ja’Quarrias Morris (M/20) of Lancaster, VA, for his involvement in the shooting that occurred on April 11, 2026.”
Earlier in the week, officers arrested Isaiah Charity, 18, of Richmond, who faces eight counts each of aggravated malicious wounding, firearm use in a felony, and reckless handling of a firearm with injury. Police stated, “This is an active investigation and additional arrests are anticipated.”
Investigators believe the shooting began after an altercation between two unrelated groups escalated into gunfire. Detectives determined that at least three individuals exchanged shots, including one suspect who was also wounded during the incident.
Ongoing investigation and earlier arrests
One of the initial suspects, Jamya Williams, 18, of Henrico County, was previously taken into custody and charged with multiple felony counts, including aggravated assault and firearm violations. A third suspect remains unidentified.
Police also arrested Jahmari Savage, 21, of Chesapeake, on a firearm possession charge during the investigation, though officials said he is not believed to be connected to the shooting.
The department continues to seek information from the public. “This incident remains under investigation by the VBPD Detective Bureau. Anyone with information is asked to contact VBPD at (757) 385-4101 or anonymously through Crime Solvers,” police said.
Authorities emphasized that all charges are accusations and that those arrested are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Virginia Beach shooting, Atlantic Avenue gunfire, JaQuarrias Morris arrest, Isaiah Charity charges, VBPD investigation
