Possible solutions for Shockoe Bottom safety discussed following mass shooting

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- On Wednesday, speaking for the first time publicly since the Shockoe Bottom mass shooting, Richmond City Council president Cynthia Newbille heard thoughts and recommendations from community members and business owners near where the shooting took place.

The shooting, which left two dead and seven injured, happened just before 3 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 21 near E. Main and N. 18th streets -- within Newbille's district.

"I know everyone is impacted by the tragic and senseless loss of life this past weekend," Newbille said at the meeting held at Main Street Station on Wednesday, Feb. 25. "We must do something about that, to make it safer."

In an effort to make the area safer more immediately, Richmond Police Chief Rick Edwards said he and more officers will physically be on the street starting the weekend of Saturday, Feb. 28. The length of time for the police presence will be extended. Six police cameras will also be in Shockoe, with the hope being to de-escalate fights.

"I think we're on the right path," one business owner said.

To help form a long-term solution, Newbille heard concerns about issues stemming from behaviors and calls to crack down on enforcing Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) laws and rules.

"What do you recommend?" Newbille asked a community member involved in the Shockoe neighborhood for 40 years.

"I think you bring in the ABC board ... 'Do you have the exit signs you're required to have?' 'Do you have a hood that's actually installed?'" He replied. "Then, all the alcohol, at 2 o'clock, by law, has to be completely taken off the table. But, if you're serving mixers 'til 3 o'clock, then you're sending people out on the street, they're bringing their own booze."

Another meeting and update on these concerns is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Thursday, March 19. It will also be held at Main Street Station.

For all of our coverage on this tragic mass shooting, click here.