PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — An off-duty Portsmouth Police officer working security at a Food Lion on London Boulevard accidentally shot another woman in a restroom Friday afternoon, police said.
Portsmouth Police said the shooting happened around 3:45 p.m. in the 1500 block of London Boulevard, as police responded to the Food Lion at that location. Police said the woman who was shot was using the restroom at the time and was struck by a bullet. She was taken to a nearby hospital with non life-threatening injuries and is expected to make a full recovery, police said.
“I couldn’t imagine using the bathroom and I get shot, that’s just unbelievable and unexpected,” an anonymous shopper told 10 On Your Side.
The off-duty officer was working a security detail and “was involved in an accidental discharge of her service weapon while using the restroom,” according to police. Per department policy, the officer has been put on administrative leave pending the outcome of a criminal and internal investigation, both of which will be conducted by the Portsmouth Police Department, according to police.
On Saturday, PPD announced that on request of the Portsmouth Commonwealth Attorney, Virginia State Police will handle the criminal investigation into the shooting.
Portsmouth Police will still conduct an administrative investigation.
“Accidents do happen, but we need to be make sure that things are going to be handled correctly,” an anonymous shopper said.
This remains an active investigation.
Source: Fox 8 News Channel