PORTSMOUTH, Va. - The Portsmouth Police Department is investigating a shooting that took place early Thursday morning.
Officers responded near the intersection of Deep Creek and Jefferson and located a woman with a life-threatening injury to her upper body.
Authorities say the call came in at 8:45 a.m.
A Portsmouth Public Schools representative told us administration at the Emily Spong Center were told to go home for the day and added that this is not a school, but an administrative office building.
In a tweet, Portsmouth Police said that the woman's injury is now considered serious. She has been taken to a local hospital for treatment, where police say she is in stable condition.
Following investigation, detectives have secured images of a suspect vehicle. It appears to be a grey or silver four-door vehicle with possible front-end damage by the headlight on the right side.
A representative for Portsmouth Public Schools wrote that they can confirm that the victim is a PPS staff member. PPS Superintendent Dr. Elie Bracy III just sent the following message out to all staff:
Good afternoon, PPS team –
I am writing you today in light of some unsettling news. This morning, a shooting took place in the community, close to the Emily Spong Center. The specific events are still under police investigation, so I am limited in what I can share with you. However, we do know that one of our own was injured due to this senseless act of violence.
Undoubtedly, this is upsetting for all of us. Our hearts go out to our colleague, and we are hopeful for a swift recovery. In addition, I know it can also be troubling as we naturally question the impact of this on our day-to-day routines.
Let me share that we have been in constant communication with both the Portsmouth Police Department and the Portsmouth Sheriff’s Office. We are working with our city manager and other city leadership to identify ways to strengthen security in our communities, especially our schools’ surrounding neighborhoods.
Most importantly, we do not want you to feel alone during this time. Please feel free to reach out to your school administrator or supervisor with any concerns you may have. As always, the Employee Assistance Program is free of charge to employees and can connect you with mental health professionals who can provide counseling support. You can access more information about this here.
I thank you all for everything you do for our schools and the outstanding service you provide the children of this city. I ask that you continue to keep our PPS teammate in your thoughts and wish her all the best in her recuperation.
Thank you all, Dr. Bracy
The police investigation is ongoing.
News 3 is trying to learn more about the incident and why administration was sent home.
