Portsmouth man charged in woman's fatal balcony fall

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A 45-year-old Portsmouth man named Leonard Gorham Sr. is facing multiple felony charges, including abduction, following the death of a woman who fell from a fourth-story balcony last Thursday. Police were called to the 1100 block of London Boulevard around 3 a.m. and found the unresponsive victim, identified as Camille Small, with multiple injuries. An off-duty police detective had been awakened by a woman's screams for help and discovered Small on the ground below the balcony.

Why it matters

This tragic incident raises concerns about domestic violence, the safety of multi-story residential buildings, and the potential for violence to escalate when individuals are held against their will. It also highlights the importance of prompt police response and thorough investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding such incidents.

The details

According to court records, Gorham is accused of holding Small against her will shortly before her death. Gorham admitted to arguing with Small, striking her in the face, and physically preventing her from leaving the apartment. However, Gorham claims that Small jumped from the balcony on her own and that he attempted to pull her back to safety. Investigators found that the recording and security equipment inside the home had been destroyed, and a bullet hole was discovered in the ceiling. Gorham also admitted to using cocaine with Small and firing a gun into the occupied apartment above.

• The incident occurred around 3 a.m. on Thursday, March 31, 2026.
• An off-duty police detective was awakened by the sound of a woman's screams for help.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Leonard Gorham Sr. out on bail.