Virginia Beach police are investigating a murder-suicide that left two people dead outside an Amazon fulfillment center on Sunday afternoon. The incident occurred at the facility on Twin Mills Road, where officers responding to a reported shooting found a man and a woman deceased in an outdoor picnic area.
Emergency dispatchers received the call at approximately 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 1. When officers arrived at the 1800 block of Twin Mills Road, they discovered the victims outside the warehouse, not inside the building. Deputy Chief Jeff Wilkerson said the preliminary investigation, including review of surveillance footage, indicates that one person shot the other and then took their own life.
“They were not inside the warehouse,” Wilkerson told reporters. “They were outside in the picnic lunch area on the facility. So we don’t know what their employment status is at this point. One person was the shooter and one person was clearly a victim and both are deceased. Based on the video evidence.”
Police have not confirmed whether the two individuals were Amazon employees, but they believe the victims were acquainted. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have stated there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Amazon confirmed that the facility would be closed for at least 24 hours and that all employees would be paid for missed shifts during the closure. Spokesperson Lex Evans issued a statement expressing condolences and noting that counseling services have been made available to staff.
“We’re deeply saddened by this tragedy. Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those affected during this incredibly difficult time. Direct support is being provided to the families, and counseling services have been made available to all employees who need it,” Evans said.
Employees were allowed to enter the building to retrieve personal belongings before being sent home for the day. The company said it is fully cooperating with law enforcement.
Wilkerson described the incident as a “sad day” for the city, emphasizing the broader issue of gun violence. “It’s a tragic day any time someone loses their life for any reason due to gun violence,” he said. “This is clearly a gun violence situation. We do believe that these two people were acquaintances of one another based on the circumstances. We don’t know all of the circumstances yet, but we’re going to get to the bottom of it. But it’s certainly a sad day for the city when someone falls to gun violence.”
The shooting adds to a series of violent incidents in Virginia that have drawn attention to public safety. Earlier this year, state leaders faced legal troubles, and school board disputes have highlighted ongoing tensions. While this incident appears isolated, it underscores the persistent issue of gun violence in the region.
Police are urging anyone with information to come forward as they continue to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy. The identities of the deceased have not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
