FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 8, 2026
Barricade Incident Ends Peacefully on 7th Street
Lynchburg, VA – At approximately 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, the Lynchburg Police Department responded to a report of trespassing in the 1400 block of 7th Street.
Upon arrival, officers determined that 44-year-old Shawn Smith had unlawfully entered an apartment where he previously resided and refused to vacate the premises. As officers attempted to resolve the situation, the incident escalated into a barricade incident.
After several hours of negotiations and the use of chemical munitions, Mr. Smith surrendered peacefully and was taken into custody without incident.
Mr. Smith has been charged with Breaking and Entering and was also served an outstanding warrant for Failure to Appear in Court.
The Lynchburg Police Department thanks the community for their patience and cooperation during this incident.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Lynchburg Police Department at (434) 847-1602 or call Crime Stoppers at (434) 847-1602. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the P3 Tips mobile app.