Norfolk Man Arrested for Negligent Firearm Discharge
Police charged a 22-year-old man after a bullet was fired in a local apartment building.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Accidents
Norfolk police arrested David J. Lawton, 22, after a firearm was discharged in an apartment complex on East Little Creek Road. No injuries were reported during the incident.
Why it matters
Law enforcement officials prioritize investigations involving the reckless handling of firearms to prevent potential harm in residential areas. The swift response to the reported noise helped secure the location.
David J. Lawton has been officially charged with the reckless handling of a firearm following the incident. Police remain in the active process of investigating the scene in the 2500 block of East Little Creek Road.
The players
David J. Lawton
He is the 22-year-old individual who was arrested and charged with reckless handling of a firearm.
Norfolk Police Department
This is the local law enforcement agency responsible for investigating the incident on East Little Creek Road.
The details
Officers responded to the 2500 block of East Little Creek Road after receiving reports of a loud noise and discovering a bullet hole in a ceiling. The discharge occurred when a neighbor handled a firearm negligently in the unit above another resident's apartment.
Timeline
October 15, 2026: Police responded to the scene at 1:20 p.m.
Legal Context
This incident falls under the scope of local enforcement regarding public safety and the negligent operation of firearms in dense residential housing. It reflects ongoing efforts by the city to mitigate risks associated with weapon handling in communal living environments.
Residents of the East Little Creek Road area are advised that the situation is secure with no ongoing threats to public safety. The investigation serves as a reminder of the legal consequences for failing to maintain safe firearm storage and handling practices.
The takeaway
Maintaining strict adherence to firearm safety protocols is essential for preventing dangerous accidents in apartment buildings. Gun owners are reminded that negligence can lead to immediate arrest and serious criminal charges regardless of whether injuries occur.
Further reading
For more information on local safety incidents, visit the Norfolk Accidents section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WAVY-TV 10 Hampton Roads.
