A Norfolk man has been arrested and charged after firing shots at police officers outside a Kohl’s store in Virginia Beach during a shoplifting incident. The incident took place on Friday, October 20, when police received a call from Kohl’s loss prevention about a shoplifting incident involving the suspect, Tyler Davis, 24. According to reports, Davis had previously shoplifted from the store and was attempting to steal more items when an officer responded to the scene.
As the officer tried to apprehend Davis, the suspect fired a gun at the officer while being followed in his police car. Luckily, the officer was not hit by the gunfire, and with the assistance of other responding officers, he was able to take Davis into custody. The police car did sustain damage from at least one round, highlighting the danger officers face in the line of duty.
Tyler Davis now faces multiple charges, including attempted aggravated murder, use of a firearm by a violent felon, conspiracy to commit grand larceny, and grand larceny. Two other individuals, Hayley Fernandez and Jaclyn Anderson, were also involved in the incident. Fernandez was arrested for an outstanding felony warrant and charged with conspiracy to commit grand larceny, while Anderson faces charges of conspiracy to commit grand larceny and possession of a schedule I/II narcotic.
Police Chief Paul Neudigate commended the officers involved in the incident for their commitment to serving and protecting the community, emphasizing that there is no such thing as a routine call for law enforcement. He also expressed gratitude that the officer was unharmed and called on the community and the criminal justice system to send a clear message that attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated.
The incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by police officers daily and the importance of supporting and respecting law enforcement in their efforts to maintain public safety. The investigation into the shoplifting incident and the shooting is ongoing, and any additional details will be shared as they become available.
