Virginia Beach, VA – A Virginia Beach police officer shot a 24-year-old Richmond man Friday afternoon after authorities said he repeatedly refused commands to drop a knife while on the shoreline near Shore Drive.

According to the Virginia Beach Police Department, emergency dispatchers received a call at approximately 1:15 p.m. reporting an individual walking through traffic armed with a knife.

Responding officers located the man on the shoreline in the 2800 block of Shore Drive, where police said he produced an approximately 11-inch knife.

Officers repeatedly attempted to communicate with the man and instructed him to drop the weapon, according to police.

When he did not comply, officers deployed a less-lethal SAGE launcher, firing a sponge round in an effort to gain compliance. Police said the less-lethal option was unsuccessful.

One officer then discharged his firearm, striking the man.

Officers immediately rendered medical aid before the man, identified only as a 24-year-old Richmond resident, was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The officer who fired the shots was not injured and has been placed on Critical Incident Leave, a standard procedure following officer-involved shootings.

The Virginia Beach Police Department’s Detective Bureau is conducting a criminal investigation into the shooting.

Once completed, investigators will submit their findings to the Virginia Beach Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney, which will independently review the evidence to determine whether the officer’s actions complied with state law.

The Commonwealth’s Attorney is also conducting a separate, parallel investigation. After both criminal investigations conclude, the department’s Internal Affairs Unit will conduct an administrative review to determine whether department policies, procedures, and training were followed.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Virginia Beach Police Department Detective Bureau at (757) 385-4101 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Solvers.