CONTACT: MATT BELL, Police Public Relations Specialist
434-857-3316
matt.bell@danvilleva.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Danville Police Department officers were involved in a shooting in the 500 block of Apollo Avenue Wednesday, Jan. 17.
Shortly after 4 p.m., officers were dispatched to the area of Apollo Ave. on report of a suspicious male, who was described as a former employee of a business located nearby on Riverside Drive who was possibly armed.
Officers located the male just off Apollo Ave. in the parking lot area of Westwood Middle School. For at least 25 minutes, the officers attempted to negotiate with the male who claimed he was armed and suicidal.
During de-escalation attempts, the male drew a handgun from his waistband and officers gave him commands to drop it. The male fired the gun in a direction away from officers before turning and pointing it at them. Officers then discharged their weapons, striking the male.
Officers immediately began rendering first aid and called for EMS support. The male was transported to SOVAH Hospital Danville where he is currently being treated.
No names are being released at this time. In accordance with policy, the names of the officers involved will be released in three days.
Danville Public Schools was closed for inclement weather Wednesday, and no children or school employees were present.
The Virginia State Police has been called in to investigate this incident.