MAHLEIK BARBER OBITUARY: NEWPORT NEWS MOURNS LOSS OF 24-YEAR-OLD VICTIM OF GUN VIOLENCE
Newport News, Virginia, is reeling from the tragic loss of 24-year-old Mahleik Barber, who succumbed to gunshot wounds in a shooting near Marshall Avenue and Interstate 664. The incident, which occurred on Friday night, has left the community shaken and searching for answers.
Barber, a resident of Newport News, was found with at least one gunshot wound in the 3700 block of Marshall Avenue, an area known for prior criminal activity. Despite medical personnel’s efforts to stabilize him, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at the hospital.
The shooting was first reported at approximately 10:30 p.m. when Newport News police were alerted by ShotSpotter, a gunfire detection technology that notifies law enforcement when gunshots are heard within a monitored area. Responding to the ShotSpotter alert, officers quickly arrived at the scene and found Barber with gunshot wounds.
Detectives from the Newport News Police Department are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding Barber’s death. While authorities have not released additional information regarding a possible suspect, motive, or the specific events that led up to the shooting, they are appealing to the public for any information that might assist in solving the case.
The community is mourning the loss of Mahleik Barber, a young man who had his whole life ahead of him. His untimely death serves as a stark reminder of the importance of reducing gun violence in Newport News and other affected communities.
As the investigation continues, the Newport News Police Department has asked anyone with information about the shooting to contact them directly or submit tips anonymously through the Crime Line. Anonymous tips can be crucial in cases like this, where witnesses may be hesitant to come forward for fear of retribution.
The tragic death of Mahleik Barber underscores the urgent need for continued action and community involvement to prevent further tragedies in Newport News. For the community, finding justice for Barber and ensuring safety in the neighborhood remain pressing priorities.
