PORTSMOUTH, VA – A tragic shooting unfolded early this morning in Portsmouth, leaving two people dead in a grim sequence of events. Authorities report that a man shot and killed a woman on Decatur Street before taking his own life shortly thereafter.
The incident began around 1:30 a.m. when 32-year-old Kirstin Moore approached her neighbor, 33-year-old Larry Mitchell, to request that he lower his music. The situation escalated quickly, resulting in Mitchell fatally shooting Moore.
Following the shooting, Mitchell fled the scene in his car, leading officers on a brief pursuit. He eventually crashed into a parked car on Effingham Street. When police arrived, they found Mitchell deceased, having taken his own life.
Neighbors and friends are grappling with the loss. A close friend described Moore as a “beautiful person” who was cherished by many. “She had so much love to give,” he said, reflecting on the void her death leaves behind.
Witnesses recall seeing Moore and Mitchell speaking moments before the shooting. One neighbor expressed regret for not intervening, wishing he could have prevented the tragedy.
The chaos continued a few blocks away on Effingham Street, where residents described the scene as tumultuous. Many were startled by the sound of the crash, initially thinking it was a minor accident.
Portsmouth residents are no strangers to violence, but this incident has left the community shaken. “It’s crazy out here all the time,” one local remarked, highlighting the ongoing concerns about safety in the area.
As authorities continue their investigation, the community mourns the loss of Moore, a life cut short by senseless violence.