Richmond Daily Local Headlines: February 24, 2026

Richmond’s biggest story remains the Shockoe Bottom shooting that left two people dead and seven others injured early Saturday morning. Police are now asking the public to share any cellphone or security video that captured the fight and the moments leading up to the gunfire, as investigators work to identify the shooters.

Shockoe Bottom shooting: investigators ask for video

According to police, the violence unfolded around closing time in the 18th Street corridor. Officials say multiple people entered a street fight with guns, and shots were fired from more than one person. Anyone who was in the area is being urged to preserve recordings rather than post edited clips, since timestamps and wider context can help detectives.

License-plate reader cameras: support, skepticism, and a contract decision

At City Hall Monday, residents pressed leaders to end the city’s automated license-plate reader program, citing privacy, surveillance, and equity concerns. City officials and police leadership pushed back, saying the cameras have helped solve violent-crime and hit-and-run cases and can reduce reliance on community witnesses.

The contract renewal is expected to remain a live issue in coming weeks, with public safety benefits weighed against data safeguards and oversight.

Housing: Council approves a revamped Affordable Housing Trust Fund ordinance

City leaders also announced unanimous passage of an ordinance redesigning Richmond’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund, aimed at creating a dedicated and more transparent funding approach for building and preserving affordable units. The city framed the move as a response to rising housing costs and a step toward longer-term stability for renters and homeowners.

Winter storm response: early cost estimate and a fuller report on the way

Council also received an interim briefing on January’s back-to-back winter weather emergencies. The city administration said material costs for salt and sand were about $550,000, and leaders raised concerns about untreated neighborhood roads, sidewalk-clearing enforcement, and pothole repairs. A broader after-action report is expected in early March.

Sources

• https://www.12onyourside.com/2026/02/24/rpd-opens-fbi-tip-line-shockoe-bottom-shooting/
• https://www.12onyourside.com/2026/02/24/city-officials-double-down-commitment-flock-safety-cameras-face-community-pressure-get-rid-them/
• https://www.rva.gov/press-releases-and-announcements/news/mayor-avula-celebrates-council-unanimous-passage-new
• https://www.wtvr.com/news/local-news/richmond-cao-ice-storm-impact-feb-23-2026