On the night of August 9, 2021, Portsmouth police responded to a report of a shooting on the 400 block of High Street in the city’s Downtown section. Officers found 32-year-old Brandon D. Edwards with grave injuries; he was taken to a nearby hospital but died of his wounds. The death was investigated as a homicide.

Edwards was a 2008 graduate of I.C. Norcom High School and worked as a self-employed Home Improvement Specialist. He was the father of three daughters, Aniyah Edwards, Zhane’ Easley, and Amyh a Easley, and a son, Kharmari Edwards. The Portsmouth Police Department’s investigation led to the arrest of 43-year-old William J. Pickens, who was charged with First Degree Murder, Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony, and Reckless Handling of a Firearm.

Anyone who knew Brandon, was in downtown Portsmouth the night of August 9, 2021, or has information about the shooting is asked to come forward.