Virginia Beach Man Guilty of Deadly 2022 Hit-and-Run

Acquitted of murder, manslaughter charges

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A Virginia Beach jury found Joshua Robinson guilty of hit-and-run in the death of U.S. Navy sailor Stephen 'Tyler' Murphy, but acquitted him of more severe charges of involuntary manslaughter and second-degree murder.

Why it matters

The case highlights the complexities of hit-and-run incidents and the challenges prosecutors face in securing convictions on more serious charges like murder or manslaughter when the circumstances are unclear. It also underscores the tragic loss of a young servicemember and the grief felt by his family.

The details

According to police, the incident occurred around 3:45 a.m. on July 5, 2022 in the 3700 block of Shore Drive in Virginia Beach. There was a dispute between Robinson and Murphy, and Robinson struck Murphy with his vehicle, causing life-threatening head injuries. Murphy died from his wounds the next day.

  • The incident happened around 3:45 a.m. on July 5, 2022.
  • Murphy died from his injuries the next day, on July 6, 2022.

The players

Joshua Robinson

A Virginia Beach man who was found guilty of hit-and-run in the death of Stephen 'Tyler' Murphy.

Stephen 'Tyler' Murphy

A U.S. Navy sailor who died from injuries sustained when he was struck by a vehicle driven by Joshua Robinson.

Stephen Murphy

The father of Stephen 'Tyler' Murphy, who said his son was a protector and became an organ donor after his death.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“As a father, I couldn't be prouder of someone who spent his whole life protecting and at the same time, to give life when he can no longer protect it. That's humbling for a father.”

— Stephen Murphy, Father of Stephen 'Tyler' Murphy (13newsnow.com)

What’s next

The judge will determine Robinson's sentence for the hit-and-run conviction at a later date.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for greater awareness and accountability around hit-and-run incidents, as well as the lasting impact they can have on victims' families. It also underscores the challenges prosecutors face in securing convictions on more serious charges when the circumstances are unclear.