Portsmouth Police Identify Jugg as Victim in Deadly Saturday Night Shooting
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — A quiet Saturday night in Portsmouth erupted into chaos when gunfire broke out along George Washington Highway, leaving one man dead and two others injured. Portsmouth Police have since identified the man who lost his life as Jugg, whose full name has not yet been released pending notification of additional family members. The two surviving victims, both adults, remain hospitalized as detectives continue to piece together the series of events that led to the deadly encounter.
According to investigators, officers were dispatched shortly before 11:30 p.m. Saturday after reports of multiple shots fired in the 1200 block of George Washington Highway, a mixed residential and business corridor in Portsmouth’s Southside. When emergency crews arrived, they discovered three victims suffering from gunshot wounds in the parking lot of a small strip of stores. Jugg, who appeared to have sustained multiple injuries, was found unresponsive near the entrance of a convenience store. Despite rapid medical aid and transport attempts, he was pronounced deceased at the scene by first responders.
The two other victims—both men believed to be in their twenties—were taken to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital for treatment. Police said one remains in stable condition, while the other is in serious but non-life-threatening condition. Their names have not been released publicly as investigators continue to notify family members and gather witness accounts.
Detectives spent much of the night processing the scene, marking dozens of shell casings scattered near parked vehicles and storefronts. Neighbors described hearing “at least 20 shots,” followed by screams and the sound of tires screeching as people fled the area. One resident, who asked not to be named, told local reporters, “It was like fireworks at first — then we realized it wasn’t. People were ducking behind cars, trying to get away.”
Police have not yet confirmed a motive for the shooting but said that preliminary evidence suggests it may have stemmed from a dispute that escalated during a gathering earlier in the evening. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is being reviewed, and officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has video evidence to come forward.
Portsmouth Police Chief Stephen Jenkins called the shooting “a heartbreaking act of senseless violence” and emphasized the department’s commitment to finding those responsible. “Our officers are working around the clock to bring justice to the victim’s family and ensure the safety of this community,” Jenkins said in a statement.
Jugg, described by friends as a “loyal and loving person,” was well-known in his neighborhood. Social media tributes began appearing within hours of police releasing his name, with many expressing disbelief and sorrow. One friend wrote, “He had a big heart, always made people laugh — he didn’t deserve this.”
Community members and faith leaders have begun organizing a vigil near the site of the shooting to honor Jugg’s memory and call for an end to gun violence in Portsmouth. Residents say this latest tragedy underscores the need for more youth programs, conflict resolution initiatives, and community policing efforts to prevent such violence before it starts.
Police have confirmed that no arrests have been made, though they are pursuing multiple leads. The Portsmouth Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division has taken over the case, with assistance from regional task forces. Detectives are encouraging anyone with information to contact Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and cash rewards may be available for information leading to an arrest.
As Sunday morning broke over George Washington Highway, remnants of the chaotic night remained — shattered glass, police tape fluttering in the wind, and flowers left where Jugg’s life came to an abrupt and tragic end.
What started as an ordinary weekend night ended in heartbreak, leaving behind a community searching for answers and peace.