[Archived] Alexandria Police Department Continues to Address Shots Fired Incidents After Earlier Spike

For Immediate Release: November 24, 2020

The Alexandria Police Department continues to actively investigate the increase in weapons offenses involving shots fired this fall and has increased targeted patrol coverage, following an unusual spike in incidents in September and October. Following is additional information since the previous update.

“Investigating weapons offenses and preventing future incidents is a major priority for the Alexandria Police Department,” said Police Chief Michael L. Brown. “While the number of incidents is returning to previous levels, we urge the public to provide any available information about those who may be involved.”

The Police Department has executed more than 50 search warrants in connection with recent incidents, resulting in more than 14 arrests; recovery of more than 14 weapons; and recovery of drugs, vehicles and other evidence. To avoid jeopardizing the active investigations into these incidents, the Police Department is not able to release additional details to the public at this time.

Of the seven incidents in October, one incident occurred on October 24 after a security guard at a restaurant shot a suspect in self-defense. One incident occurred on October 26 after Alexandria police officers exchanged gunshots with two armed robbery suspects. One suspect died and another later turned himself in to the Virginia State Police. An Alexandria police officer was treated for non-life threatening injuries. The three November incidents to date include two illegal firearm discharges without injuries and the November 7 homicide of Yousef Tarek Omar.

Residents are urged to call or text 911 immediately if gunfire is heard. All reports will be promptly investigated. Some recent reports of shots fired were determined to be fireworks or activity at the police firing range on Eisenhower Avenue.

Confirmed Shots Fired Incidents - 2019 vs. 2020 (as of November 23, 2020)

Anyone with information about these incidents is urged to contact Detective John Brattelli at 703.746.6699. Information may be provided anonymously.

For inquiries from the news media only, contact Lt. Courtney Ballantine at courtney.ballantine@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.6612.