FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 16, 2025
LPD Responds to Domestic Violence Incident: Lockdown at River Ridge Mall as Precaution
LYNCHBURG, Va. – At approximately 10:07 a.m. today, the Lynchburg Police Department (LPD) responded to a report of a domestic violence situation in the 1400 block of 11th Street.
Prior to the arrival of officers, the suspect—identified as 32-year-old Xavier Garland of Lynchburg—had left the scene. During the preliminary investigation officers were made aware that Garland had made threats indicating his intent to go to River Ridge Mall and harm himself and others.
Out of an abundance of caution, LPD and River Ridge Mall management made a joint decision at 11:38 a.m. to place the mall on lockdown to ensure public safety while officers worked to locate the suspect.
A short time later, Garland was located in the 1600 block of Shaffer Street and taken into custody without incident. At approximately 12:10 PM the lockdown at River Ridge Mall was lifted.
The Lynchburg Police Department would like to thank and commend the management and staff of River Ridge Mall for their swift and decisive action, which played a vital role in keeping our community safe.
Anyone with information that may assist authorities in this case is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at (888) 798-5900. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online at http://p3tips.com, via the P3 mobile app, or by texting CVCS to 738477 to receive a link to the anonymous tip form. Please note that message frequency may vary, and standard message and data rates may apply.