In the early morning hours of July 20, 2023, the typically quiet Branchester Lakes neighborhood in Prince George, Virginia, was disturbed by an act of violence that claimed the life of 18-year-old Rashad James. A Black male from Dinwiddie County, James was discovered lying in the road at the intersection of Blair Court and Nicolas Place with a gunshot wound. Police were called to the scene at approximately 2:35 a.m. and pronounced him dead. Investigators believe he was shot at the location where his body was found.
The Prince George County Police quickly launched an investigation, canvassing the area and appealing to the public for assistance. They specifically requested that residents check their home security cameras for any footage that might aid in identifying those responsible for Rashad's death. The authorities emphasized the importance of community cooperation in solving the case. An extensive search of the area was conducted, which included the use of a K-9 unit to look for evidence.
Just over a week later, on July 28, 2023, a break in the case came when police identified a suspect. Warrants were issued for the arrest of 18-year-old Xavier Winfield of Sutherland, Virginia. The charges against Winfield included aggravated malicious wounding, reckless handling of a firearm, and brandishing of a firearm. As of the last available reports, Winfield remained at large, and police were actively seeking information regarding his whereabouts. Rashad, who was known affectionately as 'Lowkey,' was remembered by his family as a beloved son, grandson, brother, uncle, nephew, and cousin.
