Five Shot, Including Three Children, in Charlottesville Celebration Turned Tragic
Charlottesville, VA – July 5, 2025 — A night meant for joy and community quickly turned into a scene of heartbreak and terror late Friday in Charlottesville, when five people — including three children — were shot during what authorities describe as a targeted act of violence. The incident occurred shortly before midnight at a residential gathering on the city’s north side, transforming a celebration into a crime scene now under intense investigation.
According to the Charlottesville Police Department, officers were dispatched around 11:45 p.m. to the Hardy Drive area following numerous 911 calls reporting gunshots. Upon arrival, officers discovered multiple people suffering from gunshot wounds in and around a home where a large group had gathered for a birthday party.
Among the victims were two adults and three children, ranging in age from 6 to 12 years old. All five were quickly transported to the University of Virginia Medical Center, where they are currently being treated. As of Saturday morning, the adults were listed in stable condition, while two of the children remain in critical condition.
Details of the Shooting
Witnesses say the shooter approached the property on foot, opened fire into the crowd gathered outside, and then fled the scene. Dozens of people, including children playing in the yard, scrambled for cover as bullets struck the home, a vehicle, and several bystanders.
“We heard screaming, people running. It was chaos,” said Angela Turner, a neighbor who witnessed the aftermath. “This is a family neighborhood. There were balloons, music, kids laughing one minute, and the next — it was just panic.”
Charlottesville Police Chief Michael Kochis addressed the media early Saturday, stating:
“This was not a random act. Based on the preliminary evidence, we believe the shooter had a specific target. Tragically, innocent children were caught in the crossfire.”
Authorities have not yet named a suspect, though they are actively pursuing leads. Detectives are reviewing nearby surveillance footage, collecting shell casings, and working with community members to identify witnesses who may have seen or heard something suspicious before the attack.
Community in Shock
The news of young children being shot has stunned the Charlottesville community and reignited concerns about gun violence in neighborhoods often overlooked by the broader public. Local residents say the area, while generally peaceful, has seen a rise in tension and occasional violent incidents over the past year.
“It’s horrifying. Kids shouldn’t have to run from bullets at a party,” said Tyrone Jackson, a local father and youth coach. “This is not who we are as a community. We need to do better — all of us.”
Community organizations like Charlottesville’s Gun Violence Prevention Coalition and Mothers Standing Strong have pledged to support the victims’ families and work toward healing. Plans are already underway for a prayer vigil and community walk this coming week to demand accountability and peace.
City Leaders Respond
Charlottesville Mayor Lloyd Snook condemned the violence in a statement Saturday morning:
“There are no words to fully express the outrage and sorrow we feel today. Our thoughts are with the families impacted by this horrific event. We will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice and until every child in this city can feel safe in their own neighborhood.”
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin also commented on the shooting, calling it “a terrible tragedy” and pledging state resources to aid the investigation and support community outreach.
Investigation Ongoing
The Charlottesville Police Department is urging anyone with information to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted via CrimeStoppers at (434) 977-4000. A cash reward may be offered for information leading to an arrest.
As Charlottesville grapples with this latest tragedy, many are left asking how much more pain and loss must be endured before real change is enacted — change that protects its most vulnerable residents from becoming victims of senseless violence.
For now, a neighborhood mourns, families wait by hospital beds, and a city searches for answers.