Hanover County, Virginia – Court documents released on the details of a tragic shooting at a party in Hanover County on April 6 shed light on the events leading to the death of 16-year-old Matthew Devine from Colonial Heights High School. The Hanover County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an ongoing investigation into the incident that unfolded during a large gathering near Agape Lane and McClellan Road.
Responding to reports of gunshots and a male victim with a gunshot wound to the chest, deputies arrived at the scene as the party dispersed. They discovered Devine’s lifeless body lying parallel to the road, with blood stains leading to the location. Despite efforts to provide medical assistance, Devine was pronounced dead at 11:25 p.m. on the same day.
Accounts from witnesses revealed an altercation between Devine and an unidentified individual wearing a blue hoodie, culminating in a deadly exchange of gunfire. The suspect fled on foot while chaos ensued among partygoers. Authorities found evidence, including firearms and personal items, at the crime scene and seized them for investigation.
An 18-year-old suspect, James Rashawn Smith from Ashland, has been arraigned and indicted on charges related to Devine’s murder. Smith faces second-degree murder charges, firearm-related offenses, and other criminal counts. Another individual, Jayvian Marrece Threatt, has been arrested for attempted murder in connection with the shooting. Threatt is accused of firing at Smith during the altercation.
The case continues to unfold as authorities delve into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. Updates on the investigation and court proceedings are expected in the coming weeks.