In the early morning hours of November 27, 2019, a tragic event unfolded on a quiet, dead-end street in the East End of Newport News, Virginia, leading to the death of Calbert S. Thomas, a 48-year-old man. The incident began around 3:50 a.m. when police received a call about someone tampering with vehicles in the 1400 block of 24th Street. Before officers could arrive at the scene, a second report came in of gunfire in the same area.
Upon their arrival, police discovered Calbert S. Thomas suffering from a gunshot wound. He succumbed to his injuries a short time later. Investigators determined that Thomas, a resident of the block where the shooting occurred, had gone outside to confront an individual he saw tampering with his vehicle. This confrontation tragically escalated, resulting in Thomas being fatally shot.
Neighbors were startled by the sound of what one described as 'little firecrackers,' reporting they heard about seven shots. The community, described by residents as typically quiet and filled with children, was left in shock by the sudden violence. The news of Thomas's death was a devastating blow to those who knew him and a somber reminder of the impact of gun violence, particularly during the holiday season.
Despite the investigation that followed, there have been no public announcements from the Newport News Police Department regarding any arrests made or suspects identified in connection with the murder of Calbert S. Thomas. The case is one of many unsolved homicides in the city, which has prompted the police department to establish a Cold Case Team dedicated to re-examining such incidents. As of now, the individuals responsible for this senseless act of violence remain at large, and the search for answers and justice for Calbert S. Thomas and his family continues.
