Authorities in Virginia are searching for a 24-year-old woman in connection with the shooting death of a 10-year-old boy and the gun-related injuries of a 37-year-old man. Tashawnda Nicole Drayton has been identified as the suspected shooter. She is wanted on charges including first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding, according to the City of Franklin Virginia Police Department.
Chief Steve Patterson expressed his sorrow in a statement shared on social media, calling it a “very sad day for the City of Franklin.” He emphasized that any loss of life is unjustifiable, but the fact that a young child fell victim to such a violent crime is particularly unacceptable.
According to the police, Drayton was one of four suspects who went to a residence on Artis Street and engaged in an altercation with a man. As the situation escalated, Drayton allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot both the man and the 10-year-old boy. The young victim was then carried to a different house by a relative, where emergency responders discovered him. He was taken to the hospital for treatment, but he ultimately passed away as a result of his injuries. The man who was shot was airlifted to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, where he received treatment and was later released.
Authorities have described Tashawnda Nicole Drayton as a Black woman with black hair and brown eyes. She stands approximately 5-foot-11 and weighs around 250 pounds. Law enforcement are asking that anyone with information about her whereabouts to come forward and assist in the investigation.
Community members have expressed their shock and grief over the incident, with many calling for justice and an end to the violence that has plagued their city. Law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to apprehend Drayton and bring her to justice. They are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any information that may aid in her capture.