VIRGINIA STATE POLICE INVESTIGATION CONTINUES INTO PORTSMOUTH OFFICER-INVOLVED SHOOTING
CHESEAPEAKE, Va. – The investigation by the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation’s (BCI) Chesapeake Field Office remains ongoing into the fatal officer-involved shooting in the City of Portsmouth that occurred April 22, 2015. The state police investigation was initiated at the request of the City of Portsmouth Police Chief E.G. Hargis.
Shortly before 7:35 a.m. Wednesday, the Portsmouth Police Department was alerted by Walmart security of a suspected shoplifter leaving the store in the 1000 block of Frederick Boulevard. The male subject was crossing the parking lot on foot when he was approached by a Portsmouth Police Officer.
During the encounter, based on witness accounts, a struggle ensued between the officer and the male subject. The male subject was subsequently shot by the officer. The Portsmouth Police officer immediately requested rescue to respond to the scene. The male subject, William L. Chapman II, 18, of the 100 block of Gilmerton Avenue in Portsmouth, died at the scene.
The remains were transported to the Office of the Medical Examiner in Norfolk for examination and autopsy.
Once the investigation is completed, state police will turn the findings over to the Commonwealth’s Attorney for review and final prosecutorial determination.
During the encounter, based on witness accounts, a struggle ensued between the officer and the male subject. The male subject was subsequently shot by the officer. The Portsmouth Police officer immediately requested rescue to respond to the scene. The male subject, William L. Chapman II, 18, of the 100 block of Gilmerton Avenue in Portsmouth, died at the scene.
