Miacah Archells Cooper, a 44-year-old Black/African American man, was fatally shot in Newport News, Virginia, on December 26, 2017. The shooting occurred about 1:30 a.m. at the Christopher Crossing Apartments on the 500 block of Logan Place. Cooper was inside an apartment, sitting in the living room near a rear sliding glass door, when an unknown assailant fired multiple shots from outside. A window decorated for the holidays was shattered and Cooper was struck multiple times. His girlfriend, who had been upstairs, heard the gunfire and found him gravely wounded; emergency crews pronounced him dead at the scene.

Neighbors said the community was left shocked and saddened, and those who knew Cooper recalled him as friendly and affectionate. The Newport News Police Department opened an investigation but released no suspect description at the time and asked the public to submit tips, including anonymously. No arrests have been announced in connection with Cooper’s killing.

Anyone with information about what happened that night or who might have been responsible is asked to come forward.