Winston-Salem Police Investigate Shooting That Injures Two
Two 21-year-old men are in stable condition following a Friday afternoon shooting on Willow Oak Way.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Violence
Winston-Salem police are investigating a shooting on the 1800 block of Willow Oak Way that left two 21-year-old men with gunshot wounds. The victims were transported to a medical facility privately and remain in stable condition with injuries considered non-life-threatening.
Why it matters
The incident prompted a precautionary security status at Kimberly Park Elementary, located less than a mile from the shooting site. Investigators have confirmed the shooting was not a random act of violence.
The Violent Firearm Investigations Team is currently managing the case following the shooting at the 1800 block of Willow Oak Way. No arrests have been announced as police continue their investigation into the non-random violence.
The players
Winston-Salem Police Department
This local law enforcement agency is responsible for maintaining public safety and conducting criminal investigations within the city of Winston-Salem.
Kimberly Park Elementary
This local educational facility was briefly placed on a secured status as a safety precaution following reports of nearby gunfire.
Violent Firearm Investigations Team
This specialized unit within the local police department focuses on investigating incidents involving the use of illegal firearms.
The details
Officers arrived at the scene at 2:27 p.m. on Friday after receiving reports of shots fired. While the school was placed on secured status as a safety measure, police confirmed the threat was contained to the immediate area of the incident.
Timeline
Friday afternoon: The shooting occurred on the 1800 block of Willow Oak Way.
2:27 p.m.: Officers arrived at the scene of the shooting.
Legal Context
This incident follows the standard safety protocols established by the Winston-Salem Police Department for schools in proximity to reports of criminal activity. Such procedures ensure that educational facilities prioritize student safety whenever potential threats arise in the surrounding neighborhood.
Residents near the 1800 block of Willow Oak Way should expect continued police activity as investigators work to identify suspects. Parents of students at Kimberly Park Elementary can rely on established district security protocols to keep children safe during active police incidents.
The takeaway
Incidents of targeted violence can cause significant disruptions to neighborhood operations and school safety routines. Local authorities emphasize that school security measures are implemented as a standard precaution to ensure the protection of students and staff during any investigation.
Further reading
For more information on local safety updates, visit the Violence section.
