A 37-year-old man is in custody after a deadly shooting at the Willow Oaks apartment complex in South Boston, Virginia, that left a 47-year-old resident dead late Saturday night. Police identified the victim as Hasan Barksdale, who was found with gunshot wounds and pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators say the suspect was caught in Lynchburg after a vehicle pursuit less than 24 hours later, and they are urging neighbors to review doorbell and dash-camera footage and call in any tips.
Officers were called to the Willow Oaks complex off Poplar Creek Street at about 11:40 p.m., where they found Barksdale, according to YourGV. Investigators developed 37-year-old Robert Penick as a suspect and say he drove to Lynchburg in the early morning hours on Saturday, where a pursuit with Lynchburg officers led to his arrest.
Area has seen recent shootings
The killing comes on the heels of other recent gun violence that has put South Boston police on edge. On June 11, a separate shooting sent one person to the hospital and prompted its own appeal for community help. WDBJ7 reported that officers in that case also urged anyone with information to contact authorities.
Arrest, charges and custody
Penick is being held without bond at the Lynchburg Adult Detention Center and faces several charges, including second-degree murder, being a felon in possession of a firearm and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, according to authorities. YourGV also reports that Penick is charged with preventing a law-enforcement officer from making an arrest.
Police request footage and tips
South Boston police are asking residents to check any doorbell, home security or dashboard-camera video that might show the shooting or the suspect’s movements. Investigators say they will use the tips and footage to help build a detailed timeline and are asking anyone with information to contact the department.
What’s next
Authorities say the investigation remains active as prosecutors review the case and detectives continue collecting evidence. Anyone with information is urged to reach out to South Boston police through the department's tip line or the Halifax County commonwealth's attorney's office.
