In a devastating incident in Virginia Beach, a long-time city employee opened fire in the Princess Anne public works building, resulting in the deaths of 12 individuals and injuries to at least four others. This tragic event marks the deadliest mass shooting of 2019 so far.
Authorities reported that the shooter, armed with a .45 caliber handgun equipped with a suppressor, exchanged gunfire with police officers who arrived at the scene. The assailant was ultimately killed during the confrontation. The injured victims were swiftly transported to the hospital, with all four undergoing surgery as of Friday evening.
Virginia Beach Police Chief James Cervera and Mayor David Lewis held a press conference shortly after the shooting, expressing their sorrow over the event. “This is the most tragic day in the history of Virginia Beach,” Lewis stated. “The individuals affected are our friends, neighbors, and colleagues.”
The shooter had legally purchased his firearms, and police discovered multiple extended magazines at the scene. This incident is the worst mass killing in the city’s history, surpassing a 1994 shooting that resulted in four deaths.
Megan Thompson, a public utilities employee present during the shooting, recounted the chaos as she and her coworkers barricaded themselves in their office while calling for help. “We heard people yelling to get down,” she shared. “I can’t fathom what would drive someone to commit such an act.”
The rampage began around 4 p.m. as employees were preparing to leave for the weekend. Victims were found on all floors of the three-story building, with one individual shot outside. Chief Cervera noted that the shooter, being a current employee, had unrestricted access to the building, which is permissible in municipal locations in Virginia Beach but not in schools or courthouses.
Witness Zand Rodriguez described hearing rapid gunfire, indicating the severity of the situation. Virginia Governor Ralph Northam also commented, declaring, “Today is a horrific day for the Commonwealth of Virginia. Our hearts are heavy with the senseless violence inflicted upon this community.”
For those interested in topics surrounding pregnancy and home insemination, there are valuable resources available. You can explore more about infertility at WomensHealth.gov, and for comprehensive products related to home insemination, check out Make A Mom. Additionally, to stay informed on related topics, visit Intracervical Insemination.
In summary, the Virginia Beach shooting serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges of workplace safety and gun violence in America. As the community grapples with the aftermath, questions loom about the motivations behind this tragic event.