In the early morning hours of December 7, 2021, the life of 51-year-old Ronald Obryant Ward, a Black male, was tragically cut short in Portsmouth, Virginia. Responding to a call, police found Ward in the area of Dahlgren Avenue and Ericsson Street suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate medical attention, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The incident was quickly ruled a homicide, prompting an investigation by the Portsmouth Police Department.
As detectives delved into the circumstances surrounding the shooting, they began to piece together the events that led to Ward's death. Their investigation led them to identify a person of interest in the case. On December 22, 2021, authorities publicly named 41-year-old Ervin E. Folston Jr. as an individual they believed had information pertinent to the case and whom they wished to question.
Following the identification of a person of interest, the investigation into Ronald Obryant Ward's death has continued. To date, there have been no public announcements regarding any arrests or charges filed in connection with the homicide. The case remains an open and active investigation, with law enforcement continuing to seek information from the public that may lead to a resolution and bring closure to Ward's family and the community.
