W. Fred Duckworth, 72, was shot to death during his evening walk on March 3, 1972. Walking in his neighborhood south of West Little Creek Road, he wore a business suit, hat, gloves and a gabardine topcoat because of the chill. A passing motorist found him on the edge of a vacant lot on Major Avenue; he had been shot six times, one bullet piercing his heart. His glasses remained on his face and two valuable rings, one with a diamond, were left on his body, though his wallet was missing.

Robbery did not appear to be the motive. Police questioned several people and the Chamber of Commerce offered a $5,000 reward, but no suspect was identified. Duckworth was a controversial former Norfolk mayor (1950–1962) and segregationist, which investigators noted broadened the pool of potential enemies. In 2004 an inmate, Willie E. Creedle, said an acquaintance, John S. Ozlin, had confessed and had been paid for the killing; that tip remained circumstantial and investigators could not link Ozlin to a motive.

No arrests have been announced and the case remains unsolved. If anyone knew Duckworth, his routines, or has information about that night, please come forward.