Danville Police Name Jaiquawn Amos Powell, 28, as Suspect in Sunday Homicide; Second-Degree Murder Charges Filed
The Danville community is on edge following a tragic and violent incident that unfolded in the early hours of Sunday morning, prompting a swift investigation and an urgent call for public assistance. The Danville Police Department has now publicly identified Jaiquawn Amos Powell, 28, as the primary suspect in connection with the fatal shooting that claimed the life of an unidentified victim. Authorities have formally charged Powell with second-degree murder, and he is currently considered armed and dangerous.
According to police, officers were dispatched to the scene in the early hours of Sunday, July 27, after receiving reports of a shooting near a residential area. Upon arrival, officers discovered a male victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite lifesaving efforts by first responders, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
The name of the victim has not yet been released pending next-of-kin notification.
Swift Investigation Leads to Arrest Warrant
Following the shooting, investigators worked through the day collecting evidence, reviewing surveillance footage, and conducting interviews with potential witnesses. By Sunday evening, they had gathered enough information to formally identify Jaiquawn Powell as the suspect and issued a warrant for his arrest on charges of second-degree murder, as well as additional firearm-related offenses.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the motive behind the shooting, but confirmed that Powell and the victim were known to each other. They are continuing to investigate the circumstances leading up to the deadly encounter, including whether the incident was premeditated or the result of an escalating dispute.
Community Urged to Stay Alert
The Danville Police Department has urged residents to remain vigilant and to avoid approaching Powell if he is spotted, warning that he may be in possession of a firearm and should be considered dangerous. Police are encouraging anyone with knowledge of Powell’s whereabouts to come forward and assist in bringing him to justice.
“We are committed to pursuing every lead and ensuring the safety of our community,” said Danville Police Chief Chris Wiles. “We ask that the public remain alert, and if you see something, say something. This suspect must be located and taken into custody before anyone else is harmed.”
Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling the Danville Police Department’s tip line at (434) 799-6508 or through the Crime Stoppers line at (434) 793-0000. Information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward.
Shock and Grief Across the Community
As the investigation continues, the broader Danville community is reeling from the tragedy. Friends and neighbors of the victim have begun expressing their grief and frustration online, calling for peace and justice in a city that has seen several high-profile violent incidents in recent months.
“I don’t even know what to say anymore,” wrote one local resident on social media. “Another young life gone, another family shattered. We need change — and we need it now.”
Local leaders have echoed those sentiments, encouraging unity and support during this difficult time. Several churches and community organizations are organizing vigils and outreach events in the coming days to promote healing and help residents process the trauma.
A Community Waiting for Justice
For now, the focus remains on locating Jaiquawn Amos Powell and ensuring he is brought into custody without further harm. The Danville Police Department has pledged to release more information as the case progresses, including the identity of the victim and updates on the manhunt.
As friends and family mourn the loss of yet another life to senseless violence, the hope is that swift justice, community solidarity, and compassion will prevail.
Anyone with information is strongly urged to contact law enforcement. The safety and well-being of Danville depend on collective action and accountability.