VBPD Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting on Quarter Way

On Aug. 14, 2024, at 10:23 p.m., officers from the Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) were dispatched to a call for a drug overdose in the 1200 block of Quarter Way.

The first officer to arrive heard commotion inside the residence and entered, subsequently locating a male and female struggling over a knife in an upstairs bedroom. The officer gave several commands to drop the knife; instead, the male subject charged at the officer with the knife in hand. The officer discharged his firearm striking the male, Robert Miller (M/61) of Virginia Beach.

Aid was rendered at the scene and Miller was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

“Our prayers go out to everyone affected by this tragic incident. We offer our comfort to the grieving family, our officer, and the community during this incredibly difficult time”, said Police Chief Paul Neudigate.

The involved officer is uninjured and has been placed on administrative leave, which is standard practice for a critical incident such as an officer-involved shooting.

“For the second time in less than 48 hours, VBPD officers have been thrust into a situation requiring them to respond to deadly force encounters. In these events, officers are forced to make split-second decisions to protect their lives and the lives of others. This event is a stark reminder of the inherent dangers our officers face every day while serving our community,” said Neudigate.

The VBPD Detective Bureau is conducting one of two criminal investigations into this incident. Upon completion, all evidence obtained by VBPD will be submitted to the Virginia Beach Office of the Commonwealth Attorney (OCA) who will review the facts and circumstances for compliance with existing law.

In addition to the VBPD investigation, the OCA conducts their own parallel, independent criminal investigation. Upon conclusion of both criminal investigations, the VBPD Internal Affairs Unit will conduct an administrative review to determine compliance with department policy, procedure, and training.

Anyone with information relating to this case is asked to contact the VBPD Detective Bureau at 757-385-4101.