NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) — The Newport News Police Department’s (NNPD) Cold Case team has solved a 2017 homicide.
On Aug. 17, 2017, Newport News Police responded to the 7400 block of River Road for the report of a shooting. When officers arrived on the scene, they found 27-year-old Eric Blackshear suffering from at least one gunshot wound. He was rushed to the hospital for treatment where he later died from his injuries.
A week later, police arrested 25-year-old Donell Anthony Howard for Blackshear’s murder and charged him with second degree murder; possession of a firearm by a felon and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. However, the case was ultimately nolle processed.
On Oct. 15, detectives revisited the case in light of new information. The Grand Jury of Newport News issued indictments for Donell Howard including: first degree murder, possession of a firearm by a felon and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and he was taken into custody.
“As I have stated many times, this won’t bring Mr. Blackshear back, but seven years is a long time to wait for news like this and we all sincerely hope it helps to bring some form of closure to a family who has suffered a great loss,” said Chief Steve Drew. “I’m extremely proud of the work our Cold Case team is doing.”