Man shot to death in Portsmouth

Investigation underway after deadly shooting on Chestnut Street

Apr. 6, 2026 at 2:19am

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A 39-year-old man was shot and killed early Sunday morning in the 2400 block of Chestnut Street in Portsmouth, Virginia. Police responded to the scene around 3:25 a.m. and found the victim, Johnta Raeshawn Fields, who was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. No suspect information has been released, and the investigation is ongoing.

Why it matters

Gun violence remains a persistent issue in many urban areas, and this latest deadly shooting in Portsmouth highlights the need for continued efforts to address the root causes and improve public safety in the community.

The details

Police were called to the 2400 block of Chestnut Street, an area with houses and a church, after receiving a report of a shooting. When officers arrived, they found Johnta Raeshawn Fields, 39, who had been shot once. He was transported to a local hospital where he later died from his injuries.

  • The incident occurred around 3:25 a.m. on Sunday, April 6, 2026.

The players

Johnta Raeshawn Fields

A 39-year-old man who was fatally shot in the 2400 block of Chestnut Street in Portsmouth, Virginia.

Portsmouth Police Department

The law enforcement agency investigating the shooting incident and asking the public for any information related to the case.

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What’s next

The Portsmouth Police Department is continuing its investigation into the shooting and is asking anyone with information to come forward and contact the department or the Crime Line.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the ongoing challenge of gun violence in many communities and the need for comprehensive strategies to improve public safety and address the root causes of such violence.