Update: The Charlottesville Police Department has issued arrest warrants for a suspect since publication of the story. This article has been updated to reflect the new information.
The Charlottesville Police Department responded to shots fired reported Wednesday evening at 8:33 p.m. in the 800 block of Hardy Drive, per a community alert sent by Timothy Longo, chief of the University Police Department and vice president for security and safety.
According to a follow up email sent by Longo on Thursday, officers were able to collect evidence which led them to a suspect. CPD has since obtained arrest warrants for Robert James Wayne, 37-year-old Charlottesville resident, on the charges of attempted malicious wounding, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and use of a firearm in commission of a felony.
“Mr. Wayne was in possession of a handgun when last seen and should be considered armed and dangerous,” the email read.
Per the alert, a shots fired incident was reported to Charlottesville Police at 8:33 PM. When officers arrived on the scene, they observed shell casings in the area.
This is the third community alert since the semester started — the first incident occurred in the 300 block of 14th street NW, while the second incident occurred in the 600 block of Cabell Ave.
“Community alerts” are shared with the University community when there is sufficient and timely information that can be released to the community without compromising any on-going investigations. “Timely warnings” are sent when a threat poses an “on-going threat” to the safety of the community.
The general public may opt-in to receive emergency alerts by texting “UVA” to 226787.
Anyone with information related to the suspect or his location should contact Crimestoppers at 434-977-4000.
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