[Archived] Alexandria Police Department Actively Investigates Spike In “Shots Fired” Incidents In Final Quarter of 2020

For Immediate Release: January 9, 2021

The Alexandria Police Department is diligently working to combat the problem of weapons offenses involving shots fired. There were 55 confirmed incidents of shots fired in 2020, with an unusual spike from September through November, resulting in increased patrols in targeted areas. The following is additional information since the previous update.

“We are following every lead and working tirelessly to disrupt this criminal activity,” said Chief Michael L. Brown. “We want to assure our community that this remains a top priority for the Police Department.”

The Police Department has dedicated tremendous resources and is working with the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives on these investigations. To date, the Police Department has executed 90 search warrants in connection with these incidents, resulting in 20 arrests and the recovery of 17 guns and other evidence. To avoid jeopardizing the active investigations into these incidents, the Police Department cannot release additional details to the public at this time.

Confirmed Shots Fired Incidents - 2019 vs. 2020 (as of January 1, 2021)

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Total
2019	5	1	3	4	5	3	4	4	4	3	0	1	37
2020	2	1	2	4	2	2	4	5	11	9	11	2	55

Residents who see or hear gunfire are urged to call or text 911 immediately. The Police Department takes these incidents very seriously and promptly investigates all reports. Anyone with information about these “shots fired” incidents should contact Sgt. William Taylor at 703.746.6271. Information may be provided anonymously.

For news media inquiries only, contact Amanda Paga, Senior Public Information Officer, at amanda.paga@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.6684.