Two Virginia Beach Police Officers Killed During Traffic Stop

In a tragic incident that has left the Virginia Beach community reeling, two police officers were killed during a routine traffic stop late Friday night. The officers, identified as Cameron Girvin and Christopher Reese, were shot and killed after stopping a vehicle for expired plates.

Virginia Beach Police Chief Paul Neudigate provided details of the incident during a press conference on Saturday. According to Chief Neudigate, the officers encountered the suspect, John McCoy III, 42, who became argumentative when asked to exit his vehicle. The situation escalated when McCoy eventually exited the vehicle and engaged in a physical altercation with the officers. During the altercation, McCoy pulled out a pistol and shot both Officers Girvin and Reese multiple times.

The shooting was captured on the officers' body cameras, with Chief Neudigate describing the footage as "horrific." He expressed the deep loss felt by the department and the community, stating, "The officers, Girvin and Reese, they were dedicated, determined peace officers and public servants. They had stellar reputations in our department and their work ethic was beyond reproach. We asked them to go out in this community and keep us safe from evil. And last night, evil found them. And that sacrifice is a painful reminder of the dangers our officers face."

Following the shooting, a search was launched for McCoy, who was later found inside a shed with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.  The incident marks a somber day for the Virginia Beach Police Department and the community, highlighting the dangers that law enforcement officers face in the line of duty. The community is mourning the loss of Officers Girvin and Reese, who were remembered for their dedication and service.