Richmond police officer shot, suspect arrested

The officer, a five year veteran of the force, suffered non-life threatening gunshot wounds to his leg.

February 1, 2016; 8:38 AM • by Richard Hayes

From RPD:

Richmond Police detectives have arrested a man for shooting an RPD officer early this morning during a foot pursuit in the Brookland Park section of the city. The officer, a five year veteran of the force, suffered non-life threatening gunshot wounds to his leg. The shooter, Keith V. Smith, Jr, 23, of the 3000 block of Griffin Avenue, was arrested and a weapon was recovered.

The shooting occurred at approximately 12:17 a.m. in the 2700 block of an alley between Hanes and Garland Avenues. The wounded officer was patrolling the area with two other RPD officers when they encountered Smith standing near the intersection of Garland Avenue and Hooper Street. A foot pursuit ensued during while Smith fired multiple shots at the officers, striking one of them. That officer returned fire but did not strike Smith. The other two officers did not discharge their weapons.

A search of the area by an RPD K-9 located Smith a few minutes later, not far away, hiding near a residence. A weapon was recovered at the same time and in the same location.

Smith has been charged with three felonies: Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer, Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony, and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Detectives will continue to consult with the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and additional charges are expected.

Because an RPD officer discharged his weapon, detectives with the Force Investigation Team (FIT) will conduct a separate use of force investigation. The Department has no plans to release the name of the wounded officer as he was the only one injured. The officer remains hospitalized at this time and is expected to make a full recovery.

Detectives are not looking for any other suspects in this case.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Major Crimes Sergeant William Brereton at (804) 646-5034 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com. Citizens can also text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip. All the Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.