Flock Technology Aids Arrest in Northampton Boulevard Shooting

Detectives with the Virginia Beach Police Department’s Third Precinct Crime Suppression Squad announced an arrest in the shooting that occurred on August 24, 2026, in the 5700 block of Northampton Boulevard.

During the investigation, detectives utilized Flock ALPR technology to capture an image of a license plate from a vehicle fleeing the scene immediately after the shooting. This precise lead enabled investigators to ultimately identify the suspect.

On September 2, 2026, detectives executed a search warrant at a Virginia Beach residence where Devon Drayton (M/38) of Norfolk was located. Drayton was taken into custody without incident and charged with the following offenses:

• Attempted malicious wounding

• Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon

• Shooting at an occupied vehicle

• Shooting within city limits

• Reckless handling of a firearm

During the search, detectives recovered ammunition, magazines, and firearm components. Drayton was transported to the Virginia Beach City jail, where he is being held without bond.

"By utilizing the Flock camera network, our officers were able to locate and safely apprehend a convicted felon who posed an ongoing threat to our community,” said Chief Paul W. Neudigate. “Technology, to include ALPR, continues to be a force multiplier for the VBPD in ensuring community safety, many times enabling us to take dangerous individuals off the streets quickly before they can reoffend.”

This case remains an active and ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Virginia Beach Police Department at 757‑385‑2703 or anonymously through Crime Solvers at 1‑888‑LOCK‑U‑UP or P3Tips.com.

(All charges are accusations, and the arrested individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.)