For immediate release: February 3, 2023
Officer-Involved Shooting on 17th Street
LYNCHBURG, Va. – An officer with the Lynchburg Police Department was involved in an officer-involved shooting following a vehicle pursuit last night.
On February 2, 2023, at 9:23 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 700-block of Grady Street in reference to multiple shots fired. An officer attempted to stop a vehicle that was believed to be involved with the disturbance in the area of 12th Street. The vehicle attempted to elude police and the male driver, and only occupant fled on foot in the area of Pierce Street and 14th Street.
After a brief foot chase, the officer encountered the suspect in an alleyway in the 1400-block of 17th Street. The suspect produced a firearm and the officer discharged a department-issued handgun, striking him.
Officers performed life-saving measures on scene until the Lynchburg Fire Department transported him to Lynchburg General Hospital where he later died from his injuries.
The deceased has been identified as Ryheam Damon Brown, 25, of Lynchburg.
Chief Ryan Zuidema contacted the Virginia State Police to investigate the incident and the involved officer has been placed in a non-enforcement, limited-duty status until the investigation is complete.
Requests for any additional information should be directed to the Virginia State Police.