SPOTSYLVANIA COUNTY, Va. — A local resident who shot one of the suspects during Tuesday’s deadly Olde Greenwich violence will not face charges, authorities confirmed Thursday. The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office determined the man acted in lawful self-defense when he fired at armed attackers from his home during the chaotic incident that left three dead and multiple wounded.
The shooting erupted around 5:30 p.m. on April 8 when a botched illegal gun sale turned violent in the Olde Greenwich Circle neighborhood. According to investigators, the resident heard rapid gunfire and saw an armed suspect in the parking lot before taking defensive action. After ensuring family members called 911, he retrieved his own firearm and fired a single shot that struck one attacker.
Sheriff Roger Harris praised the resident’s quick thinking, noting his actions may have prevented further casualties. “When faced with imminent danger, this citizen responded appropriately within his legal rights,” Harris stated during a press conference. The wounded suspect, a 16-year-old, remains hospitalized and will face charges upon release.
Four suspects total have been arrested, including two juveniles and 18-year-old Jeremiah Upson. The shooting claimed the lives of 18-year-old Chase Feaster and Alonzo Goffney, along with an unidentified 20-year-old man. Vigils were held throughout the community as residents grappled with the shocking violence.
Virginia’s stand-your-ground law protects individuals who use reasonable force when facing imminent threat of harm. Prosecutors confirmed the resident’s actions fell clearly within these legal protections. The investigation continues as authorities work to trace all firearms involved in the incident.
As the community mourns, officials emphasized the importance of lawful gun ownership and situational awareness. The sheriff’s office plans to host safety seminars in coming weeks while the investigation into the original illegal gun transaction remains ongoing.