Suspect 'Calmly Walked Away' After Virginia Shooting

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Post on Feb 24, 2025

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Virginia Beach Shooting Suspect 'Calmly Walked Away': Police Release New Details

Virginia Beach, VA – A new wave of information has emerged surrounding the shooting at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center on Friday, March 1, 2019, offering a chillingly detailed account of the suspect's actions and the chaotic aftermath. Police have confirmed that DeWayne Craddock, a disgruntled city employee, calmly walked away from the scene after the massacre, carrying two weapons. This revelation has fueled further scrutiny of the security protocols in place at the municipal center and raised questions about the speed and efficiency of the response.

The initial reports described a horrific scene of carnage, with 12 people dead and several more wounded. The shooting, which unfolded over several minutes, took place on the second floor of Building 2 of the municipal center. Craddock, armed with a .45-caliber handgun and a .223-caliber rifle, both legally purchased, opened fire on his co-workers in a seemingly premeditated attack. Witnesses described a scene of utter terror as employees scrambled for cover, the sounds of gunfire echoing through the building.

Police have since released a timeline of events, piecing together the sequence of the shooting based on witness accounts, security footage, and forensic evidence. The timeline indicates that Craddock's attack began around 4:00 p.m. He methodically targeted his victims, before eventually exiting the building. Crucially, new details reveal that he didn't attempt to flee immediately after the shooting. Instead, he "calmly walked away," according to police sources, further highlighting the chilling nature of the incident. The police response, while swift, was hampered by the chaotic nature of the scene and the suspect's methodical approach.

The weapon used by Craddock, the .45-caliber handgun and the .223-caliber rifle, were legally obtained, according to investigators. This fact has reignited the national debate about gun control and the ease with which individuals can acquire firearms. Police Chief James Cervera emphasized that the investigation continues and law enforcement is examining all aspects of Craddock's background and motivations. Authorities have acknowledged the lack of prior warning signs, despite extensive background checks undertaken as part of his employment with the city. This raises significant questions regarding the effectiveness of existing background check systems and the potential for identifying individuals who may pose a threat.

The aftermath of the shooting has been marked by an outpouring of grief and support for the victims and their families. A vigil was held on Friday evening to remember the lives lost. Virginia Beach officials have pledged to improve security measures at the municipal center, and the incident has spurred a review of safety protocols across various government buildings in the state. The psychological impact on the survivors and witnesses is also being addressed through support networks and counseling services. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of public spaces and the devastating impact of gun violence.

The investigation is ongoing, with authorities still working to fully understand Craddock’s motive. The release of more detailed information, including any potential manifestos or writings, is expected to shed further light on the events leading up to the shooting. The tragedy remains a significant blow to the Virginia Beach community and a catalyst for renewed discussions about gun violence prevention and workplace safety. The calm demeanor displayed by Craddock after the act has added a chilling layer to this already devastating event. The focus now shifts towards understanding how such an incident could occur and preventing future tragedies.