Update: VBPD Makes Arrest in Sassafras Ct. Shooting

VBPD Violent Crime Unit detectives identified Marquez Smith (M/20) of Virginia Beach as an additional suspect in the robbery and shooting on Sassafras Ct. On May 20, 2025, detectives arrested Marquez Smith and charged him with Robbery and Conspiracy to Commit Robbery.

During the investigation, detectives encountered and arrested Malik Smith (M/22) of Virginia Beach and charged him with Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.  Mr. Smith is not believed to have been involved with the original offense.

Previous News Release

On April 14, 2025, at approximately 8:30 p.m., Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) officers responded to the 4100 block of Sassafras Ct. for a report of shots fired. Upon arrival, officers found two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds; both were transported to local hospitals.  One of these victims was identified as Josiah Spann (M/18) of Virginia Beach.

VBPD Violent Crimes Unit detectives have worked diligently to identify the individual or individuals involved in this shooting.   Their investigation has identified Josiah Spann as the suspect; he has been charged with Armed Robbery, Aggravated Malicious Wounding, Shooting in the Commission of a Felony, and Use of a Firearm in Commission of a Felony.  Mr. Spann was injured during the commission of his felony crimes by gunfire from the victim.

(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.)