VBPD Uses ALPR Tech to Arrest Two in Oceanfront Gun Investigation

The Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) has arrested two individuals following a comprehensive investigation into a shooting incident that occurred in the Oceanfront area earlier this month.

On October 10, 2026, at approximately 2:10 a.m., VBPD patrol officers responded to gunfire in the 300 block of 20th Street. The incident simultaneously triggered a ShotSpotter alert, guiding officers swiftly to the area. Upon arrival, officers discovered a crime scene with property damage and multiple spent shell casings; fortunately, no injuries were reported.

The VBPD Second Precinct Crime Suppression Squad (CSS) took the lead in the investigation. By reviewing Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology data, detectives identified a vehicle seen fleeing the area immediately after the gunfire. This critical evidence allowed investigators to identify the primary suspects.

On October 16, 2026, with the assistance of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), VBPD detectives successfully took both suspects into custody without incident.

Zechariah Luevano (M/23) of Norfolk was charged with:

·         Shooting from Vehicle

·         Shooting into Occupied Vehicle

·         Destruction property over $1,000

·         Reckless Handling

·         Shooting in Public Place

Tyler Bernash (M/24) of Norfolk was charged with:

·          Accessory after the fact

"This successful outcome highlights the invaluable role that modern law enforcement technology plays in keeping Virginia Beach safe," said Chief Paul W. Neudigate. "The seamless integration of our ShotSpotter and ALPR networks gave our detectives the precise data they needed to quickly identify and track down these individuals. Gun violence has no place in our community, and we will continue to leverage every tool at our disposal.”

This remains an active and ongoing investigation by the Second Precinct Crime Suppression Squad.

Anyone with information related to this case is asked to contact the VBPD Second Precinct at (757) 385‑2700 or 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.)