Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) detectives have made progress in the investigation of a robbery and shooting incident on Sassafras Ct. On May 20, 2025, Marquez Smith, a 20-year-old resident of Virginia Beach, was arrested and charged with robbery and conspiracy to commit robbery.
During the investigation, detectives also arrested Malik Smith, aged 22, from Virginia Beach. He was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Authorities do not believe he was involved in the original offense.
The incident occurred on April 14, 2025, around 8:30 p.m., when VBPD officers responded to reports of shots fired in the 4100 block of Sassafras Ct. Upon arrival, officers found two individuals with gunshot wounds who were then transported to local hospitals. One victim was identified as Josiah Spann, an 18-year-old from Virginia Beach.
Further investigation by VBPD Violent Crimes Unit detectives revealed that Josiah Spann is suspected of being involved in the shooting. He faces charges including armed robbery, aggravated malicious wounding, shooting in the commission of a felony, and use of a firearm in commission of a felony. Spann sustained injuries during his alleged criminal activities due to gunfire from the victim.
“The charges mentioned are accusations,” stated VBPD officials. “The arrested individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.”
