PORTSMOUTH, Va. — A fatal shooting occurred Thursday afternoon causing the death of a man during a confrontation at a local store on High Street, according to Portsmouth police. The incident unfolded near the Essex Food Mart, prompting an immediate response from law enforcement.
Upon arriving at the scene around 2:25 p.m., in the 2400 block of High Street, police discovered that the victim, later identified as Rahsaan Nixon, had been critically injured and had attempted to leave the area. Nixon succumbed to his injuries after being rushed to a nearby hospital.
Initial investigations revealed that the shooting was the result of a dispute that escalated when a man allegedly attempted to steal items from the Essex Food Mart. The confrontation led to the tragic shooting, leaving the community and store employees shaken.
Portsmouth Police’s Major Crimes Unit is actively conducting a criminal investigation into the incident. Authorities are gathering evidence and seeking eyewitness accounts to piece together the events leading up to the shooting.
Police are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and contact the Portsmouth Police Investigations Bureau. Information can also be submitted anonymously through the Crime Line, providing a crucial channel for community assistance in solving this case.
The shooting has raised concerns about safety in the area, prompting discussions among local leaders and residents. Efforts to increase police visibility and engage in community policing are being considered to prevent such incidents in the future.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of Nixon and seeks answers and justice in the wake of this violent act. The outreach for information and assistance from the public marks a critical point in the ongoing effort to ensure safety and peace in the Portsmouth community.