Update: VBPD Investigating Fatal Shooting on Edwin Drive

The Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) has charged Markal Cook (M/19) of Chesapeake, with Second Degree Murder and Use of a Firearm in Commission of a Felony in relation to the May 25 shooting on the 300 block of Edwin Dr. that left a 15-year-old girl dead.  Cook was previously charged with a related felony for Unlawful Carrying of a Concealed Weapon from this same incident.

“Our hearts go out to the victim’s family and loved ones. Cook’s criminal history shows several convictions in 2023 where the jail sentence was suspended.  If Cook had been serving those sentences instead of being released, there’s a good chance he would have been incarcerated on May 25, 2024, and our 15-year-old victim would be at home with her family today,” said VBPD Chief Paul Neudigate. “Until our nation, our society, our community starts treating illegal weapon possession with the seriousness it deserves, we will continue to be impacted by gun violence.”

“I’d like to thank our Detectives Bureau for their relentless effort in investigating this incident,” continued Neudigate. “While the investigation remains ongoing, our detectives, the patrol officers that responded, and our forensics team should be commended for pursuing justice for the victim and her family.”

VBPD's Detectives Bureau continues to investigate the incident.

Original News Release

The Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) is investigating a shooting that occurred in the 300 block of Edwin Drive last night that left one person dead and another injured.

The first 9-1-1 call came in at 8:31 p.m. Responding officers arrived and found two gunshot wound victims: a 15-year-old female and an 18-year-old male. Both were transported to a local hospital for treatment of their injuries. Unfortunately, the young woman succumbed to her injuries at the hospital. The male victim is in critical condition.

The investigation at this time, indicates that a fight took place inside the carnival but was quickly broken up by off-duty Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office deputies working secondary employment for the event. At some point later, it appears the confrontation resumed in the parking lot on Edwin Drive outside of the carnival event area. At least one individual produced a firearm and fired shots.

“The increase in youth gun violence that we are experiencing in our community is disturbing and reprehensible. It is heartbreaking to continue to see young lives being lost and families torn apart by these senseless acts,” said Police Chief Paul Neudigate.

There is no suspect information at this time. If you have information about this case, please contact the VBPD Detective Bureau at 757-385-4101 or anonymously through Crime Solvers at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP/P3tips.com.