LYNCHBURG (WSLS 10) - Lynchburg police announced Tuesday 16-year-old Jessie Paige was killed in a gang, drug related shooting over the weekend.
Detectives said the shooting marks the fifth incident out of a total of six targeted attacks between specific groups and individuals in the City.
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They said all six incidents are connected, but would not go into the specifics of how or why.
The first incident occurred at 5:35 p.m. on March 8, 2015 in the 1000 block of Floyd Street. During this incident 13 shots were fired at a local home. No one was hurt. The second incident occurred months later around 2:24 a.m. on June 6, 2015 in the 1000 block of Floyd Street. Two shots were fired at a house - and again no one was hurt.
The third incident happened on June 29, 2015 at 8:12 p.m. in the 1100 block of Wise Street. During this incident police found six shell casings at the scene. No injuries were reported. The fourth incident was reported at 11:37 p.m. August 12 in the 1100 block of Wise Street. During this incident the victim, identified as Eric Payne, was shot. He suffered non-life threatening injuries.
The fifth incident happened at 10:15 p.m. Saturday, August 15 in the 1500 block of 13th Street. During this incident police say three individuals were shot - resulting in the death of 16-year-old Jessie Paige. The two other victims, a 17-year-old male, and Dakota Scott, 21, suffered non-life threatening injuries.
The 17-year-old victim was released from the hospital, and Scott is listed in stable condition.
Detectives say they believe residents inside these communities may have information that could help police successfully investigate these crimes and bring justice to Jessie and his family.
Police says not receiving level of cooperation from the community @wsls
— Ananda Rochita (@AnandaRochita) August 18, 2015
Police say there are 20 known gangs in Lynchburg however that fluctuates day by day
— Ananda Rochita (@AnandaRochita) August 18, 2015
Monday night, family members and the community held a candlelight vigil for the beloved teenager. Close to 75 people attended the vigil - where many shared stories of their cherished friend.
Monday, August 17 would have been the 16-year-old's first day at Heritage High School.
So far, no arrests have been made.
The Lynchburg Police Department is asking the public to stay vigilant and be aware of their surroundings at all times. Anyone with information on these crimes is asked to call the Lynchburg Police Department at 434-455-6050. You may remain anonymous.