Arrest Made, Victim Identified in Walmsley Boulevard Homicide Investigation
RICHMOND, VA — Richmond Police Department detectives have made an arrest in connection with the fatal shooting that occurred last month on Walmsley Boulevard and have officially identified the victim as 23-year-old Donavan Depriest of Richmond.
At approximately 11:15 p.m. on Thursday, April 10, officers responded to reports of a person shot in the 3400 block of Walmsley Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers discovered an adult male, later identified as Depriest, lying on the ground suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Emergency services immediately transported him to a local hospital, but despite life-saving efforts, Depriest succumbed to his injuries.
Following an intensive investigation by Richmond Police’s Major Crimes Division, 37-year-old Michael Davis of North Chesterfield was arrested in connection with the shooting. He has been charged with murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by a felon. Davis is currently in custody, and his booking photo has been released by authorities.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine the official cause and manner of Donavan Depriest’s death.
This arrest marks a critical step in delivering justice for Donavan and closure for his grieving loved ones. Friends and family members have described Donavan as a young man full of promise, with his entire life ahead of him. His tragic death has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the continued need for efforts to reduce gun violence in Richmond.
The Richmond Police Department urges anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward. Individuals can contact Major Crimes Detective A. Darnell at (804) 646-3927, or anonymously reach out to Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips smartphone app is also available for anonymous tips.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are committed to uncovering every detail surrounding this tragic event.