On a Saturday afternoon, February 26, 2022, the life of 25-year-old Vidal Smith of Richmond, Virginia, was tragically cut short. First responders were called to the 4700 block of Southside Plaza around 4:21 p.m. following reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they discovered Smith inside a store, suffering from a gunshot wound. He was quickly transported to a local hospital, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries.
The investigation into the death of the male victim moved forward,
and nearly two months later, Richmond Police detectives announced a significant development in the case. On April 13, 2022, authorities confirmed they had identified and charged a suspect in connection with the fatal shooting.
The individual taken into custody was 20-year-old Marquise Whitaker, also a resident of Richmond. Whitaker faced multiple serious charges, including murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and shooting within an occupied building. Following his arrest, his booking photo was released to the public.
