ShotSpotter Alerts VBPD to Shooting Victim / Arrest Made

On February 24, 2026, at 5:26 p.m., Emergency Communications and Citizens Services (ECCS) received a ShotSpotter alert indicating gunfire in the 6300 block of Providence Road. Officers from the Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) responded to investigate.

Upon arrival, Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) officers located a male victim suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to survive.

Detectives with the VBPD’s Homicide Squad lead the investigation, identifying Christopher Riley Anderson (M/37) as the suspect. On February 25, 2026, Anderson was taken into custody by the VBPD’s Fugitive Apprehension Squad. Anderson was in possession of a firearm during his arrest, even though he had previously been convicted of seven felony offenses.

Anderson was charged with the following: Aggravated malicious wounding and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, shooting at an occupied vehicle, reckless handling with injury, firearm by felon, and concealed handgun.

"This arrest underscores the dedication of our officers and the use of technology as a force multiplier for our efforts," said Chief Paul W. Neudigate. "Within hours of a ShotSpotter alert, our team conducted a precise investigation, identified the offender, and swiftly apprehended this convicted felon before he had an opportunity to shoot someone else. Convicted felons illegally possessing firearms continue to be one of the main precursors to shooting violence in our communities.”

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 at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP or P3Tips.com.

(Note: The charges mentioned in this press release are accusations, and the arrested individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.)