Hanover County, Virginia – Court documents recently revealed new details surrounding a tragic shooting incident that took place at a party in Hanover County on April 6, resulting in the untimely death of 16-year-old Matthew Devine from Colonial Heights High School.
Authorities from the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office are actively investigating the events leading to the fatal shooting of Devine, shedding light on the circumstances that unfolded before and after the tragic incident on that fateful night.
On April 6 at 10:46 p.m., law enforcement responded to a large gathering in the area of Agape Lane and McClellan Road in response to a parking complaint. As deputies made their way to the scene, reports of gunshots and a male with a gunshot wound to the chest surfaced, prompting an urgent response.
Upon arriving at McClellan Road, authorities discovered a chaotic scene as party-goers dispersed, and traces of blood led to the discovery of Devine’s lifeless body parallel to the road. Despite efforts to render aid, Devine tragically succumbed to his injuries at 11:25 p.m. that same evening.
Court documents detail an altercation between Devine and an unidentified individual, escalating to a deadly confrontation. Both individuals brandished firearms, leading to a fatal exchange of gunfire as chaos ensued, with the suspect fleeing the scene in the aftermath.
Subsequent investigations at the crime scene yielded crucial evidence, including firearms found in vehicles and nearby locations, shedding light on the chain of events that transpired that tragic night.
James Rashawn Smith, 18, from Ashland, Virginia, faces multiple charges related to Devine’s death and is awaiting his next court appearance. Additionally, 18-year-old Jayvian Marrece Threatt from Petersburg, Virginia, stands accused of attempted murder in connection to the shooting at the party, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
As the investigation continues and legal proceedings unfold, the community remains gripped by the harrowing events that unfolded in Hanover County, Virginia, signaling a profound tragedy that has deeply impacted all those involved.