In the late morning of November 4, 2024, tragedy struck in a Norfolk, Virginia neighborhood. James E. Fortson Jr., a 66-year-old man, was found suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound in the 1300 block of Hanson Avenue. The call reporting a gunshot disturbance came in just before noon, at approximately 11:55 a.m. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and transported Fortson to a local hospital for medical attention.
Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he ultimately succumbed to his injuries and passed away.
For several months, the case remained under investigation by the Norfolk Police Department detectives. The community was left seeking answers as authorities worked to piece together the events that led to the fatal shooting. The investigation eventually led to a significant breakthrough in the case.
On April 6, 2025, law enforcement officers located and apprehended a suspect in the neighboring city of Suffolk. Ty-Riq Q. Anderson-Gadsden, a 26-year-old resident of Norfolk, was taken into custody in connection with the death of James E. Fortson Jr. Following his arrest, Anderson-Gadsden was transported to the Norfolk City Jail. He has been charged with second-degree murder and the use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. Anderson-Gadsden is currently being held without bond as he awaits further legal proceedings.
