Herndon, Virginia – Police in Herndon, Virginia have publicly identified a suspect connected to the fatal shooting of a teenager that occurred on Wednesday afternoon in a hotel parking lot. The suspect, identified as 18-year-old Ismael Cruz-Delcid, remains at large as authorities continue their search.
According to witnesses, the shooting took place following a confrontation involving three teenagers in the 13700 block of Coppermine Road. Cruz-Delcid, who hails from Herndon, reportedly arrived at the parking lot in his car and engaged in a physical altercation with two other teens before firing a gun at them.
Tragically, one of the teenagers sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead after being rushed to a nearby hospital, although the identity and age of the victim have not been disclosed to the public. The other victim, fortunately, escaped the gunshots and was able to provide crucial information to law enforcement regarding the shooter’s identity.
After the shooting, Cruz-Delcid fled the scene on foot, leaving his Honda Civic behind. Authorities have since issued arrest warrants for Cruz-Delcid on charges of second-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and distribution of cocaine related to a previous narcotics investigation.
Police are urging anyone with knowledge about the crime or Cruz-Delcid’s whereabouts to contact Fairfax County police, providing the opportunity to come forward anonymously. Meanwhile, the community is grappling with the tragic loss of the young victim, with victim specialists from the Major Crimes Bureau’s Victim Services Division offering support to the grieving family.
In response to the incident, law enforcement mobilized a massive presence in the area, including heavily armed officers and a lockdown of Lutie Lewis Coates Elementary School as they pursued the suspect. Deputy Police Chief Brooke Wright emphasized the seriousness of the situation, highlighting the devastating impact on the victim’s family and the potential danger posed by the armed suspect.
As the investigation unfolds, the community seeks answers and justice for the senseless loss of life in Herndon, Virginia.