Tragedy struck after a graduation ceremony at Huguenot High School when a graduate and his father were gunned down outside the Altria Theater.
In addition to the two fatalities, five other people were injured in the incident.
Richmond Police revealed at a press conference that officers stationed inside the Altria Theater who were responsible for security said they heard gunshots coming from outside around 5.15pm.
Subsequently, officers assigned to traffic details discovered several victims at the scene.
Acting Chief of Police Rick Edwards confirmed that a total of seven people had been shot. Sadly, an 18-year-old graduate and their 36-year-old father succumbed to their injuries.
A 31-year-old man is currently in critical condition with life-threatening injuries. Edwards also confirmed that four other men, aged 14, 42, 55 and 58, suffered injuries but are expected to improve.
In addition to those with gunshot wounds, six others suffered injuries unrelated to the shooting. Among them, three people said they felt increased anxiety and had to be taken to hospital, while two people were injured following falls.
Additionally, a 9-year-old child was hit by a car while fleeing the area. Fortunately, the child’s condition should improve.
Police apprehended a 19-year-old man they believe was involved in the shooting, suspecting he had some level of familiarity with at least one of the victims.
Richmond Public Schools confirmed the shooting occurred outside the theater after the Huguenot High School graduation ceremony in Monroe Park, which is adjacent to the theater. As a result, the district has canceled the scheduled 7 p.m. graduation ceremony at Thomas Jefferson High School and intends to reschedule it to a later date.
In a message to families, it is announced that all RPS schools will remain closed tomorrow, Wednesday June 7, as a precaution.
This decision was made with security in mind. As the police investigation continues, traffic in the area will be affected and the following roads will be temporarily closed:
Belvidere/Broad, Grace/Belvidere South, Lombardy/Franklin, Lombardy/Laurel, the 800 W block Franklin, Franklin/Laurel, Laurel/Cathedral, Cumberland/Pine, Floyd/Harrison and Cathedral/Harrison.