VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — A Virginia Beach officer shot and killed a man armed with a knife after responding to a call for a drug overdose on Wednesday, police said.
Around 10:25 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1200 block of Quarter Way for a call of a drug overdose. The first officer arrived and heard noise inside the residence. The officer entered and found a man and female struggling over a knife in an upstairs bedroom.
Despite officer commands to drop the knife, the man charged at the officer with the knife in hand. The officer discharged his firearm and shot 61-year-old Robert Miller of Virginia Beach.
Miller was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
“Our prayers go out to everyone affected by this tragic incident. We offer our comfort to the grieving family, our officer, and the community during this incredibly difficult time,” said Police Chief Paul Neudigate, “For the second time in less than 48 hours, VBPD officers have been thrust into a situation requiring them to respond to deadly force encounters. In these events, officers are forced to make split-second decisions to protect their lives and the lives of others. This event is a stark reminder of the inherent dangers our officers face every day while serving our community.”