Newport News, VA — July 3, 2025 – Authorities have announced a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the March 29, 2025 homicide of 41-year-old Jerrice Wilkerson, a beloved Newport News resident whose tragic death shocked her community and devastated her loved ones. After months of diligent investigative work, Oris Jerome Askew has been formally charged in connection with her death.
On Saturday, March 29, at approximately 3:34 p.m., officers with the Newport News Police Department were dispatched to the 1900 block of Marshall Avenue following a call regarding a possible deceased person. Upon arrival, officers entered the residence and discovered an adult female unresponsive. Medics arrived shortly thereafter and pronounced the woman deceased at 3:43 p.m. The victim was later identified as Ms. Jerrice Wilkerson, a 41-year-old woman known in her neighborhood for her warmth, strength, and community spirit.
The news of her death sent ripples of grief through the community. Vigils were held in her honor, and family and friends have long called for justice in the months since the tragic discovery.
Breakthrough in the Case
Following an intensive investigation led by the Newport News Police Department’s Homicide Unit, authorities identified a suspect and on July 3, 2025, they announced that Oris Jerome Askew had been charged with First-Degree Murder in connection to Ms. Wilkerson’s death. Askew has also been charged with two counts of Assault in the Commission of a Felony.
According to the department, Askew was already in custody on unrelated charges at the time the new charges were filed. The details surrounding the motive and the exact relationship between Askew and the victim have not been fully disclosed, but authorities indicated that substantial evidence, gathered through forensics, witness accounts, and community tips, led to the charges.
Statement from Police Leadership
Chief of Police Steve Drew praised the efforts of the department’s investigative team and expressed both sympathy and determination in a public statement:
“While this arrest cannot bring back Ms. Wilkerson, it stands as a clear demonstration of the dedication and hard work of our investigative team, who have diligently sought justice to provide closure for her family.”
He continued:
“I would also like to thank the community, as this would not be possible without their support and involvement. Their cooperation played an essential role in bringing us to this point in the case.”
Community Response
The arrest has brought a mix of relief and renewed grief to those who knew and loved Ms. Wilkerson. Known for her warm personality and unwavering devotion to her family, Jerrice’s absence has left a painful void in the lives of those who knew her best. Her name has become a symbol in her neighborhood for resilience and the pursuit of justice.
Residents of the Marshall Avenue area have expressed gratitude for the efforts of law enforcement and hope that this arrest marks the beginning of a full reckoning with what happened on that fateful day in March.
What Comes Next
Oris Jerome Askew will face trial for the charges, and the Newport News Commonwealth’s Attorney is expected to pursue the case to the fullest extent of the law. Meanwhile, investigators continue to review all aspects of the case to ensure a thorough and just process.
The community will continue to rally around Ms. Wilkerson’s family as they process this development and prepare for the difficult legal road ahead.
Anyone with additional information about this case is encouraged to contact the Newport News Police Department or submit a tip anonymously through Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP.
Justice for Jerrice Wilkerson is now a step closer. Her memory remains cherished, and her name will not be forgotten.