Roanoke Police Investigating Early-Morning Homicide on 12th Street SW

ROANOKE, Va — August 3, 2025 – Roanoke Police are actively investigating a fatal shooting that occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning, marking yet another tragic incident of gun violence in the city. Officers were dispatched around 12:30 a.m. to the 200 block of 12th Street SW after emergency dispatchers received reports of gunfire in the area.

Upon arrival, officers located a male victim suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite efforts by first responders to provide medical assistance, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not yet been released, pending notification of his next of kin.

Authorities quickly secured the area and began canvassing the neighborhood for potential witnesses and evidence. The Roanoke Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division was called in to assume control of the case and is leading the homicide investigation. Detectives were seen working through the night and into the morning, interviewing residents, examining surveillance cameras in the vicinity, and collecting forensic evidence.

As of now, no arrests have been made, and police have not released any suspect descriptions or possible motives behind the shooting. Investigators say they are still in the early stages of piecing together what led to the deadly incident.

The area where the shooting occurred is a residential neighborhood just southwest of downtown Roanoke. Residents in the vicinity reported hearing multiple gunshots and seeing a significant police presence shortly after midnight.

“This is heartbreaking,” said a nearby resident who wished to remain anonymous. “I’ve lived here for over 10 years, and while we’ve had some incidents, this kind of violence is deeply concerning. I hope they find whoever did this.”

Roanoke Police are urging anyone who may have been in the area at the time of the shooting or who may have information relevant to the investigation to come forward. Even seemingly minor details can often prove critical in solving cases of this nature.

Those with information can call the Roanoke Police Department tip line at (540) 344-8500 or provide anonymous tips through the Roanoke Valley Crime Line at (540) 344-8500. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via text by texting “RoanokePD” and the tip to 274637.

The department has assured the public that there is no immediate threat to the community at this time, although officers will continue to patrol the area as part of an increased law enforcement presence to provide reassurance and maintain public safety.

Further updates will be released by Roanoke Police as more information becomes available and as the investigation continues. This incident remains an active and ongoing homicide investigation.

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *