On Friday, August 21^st, 2026, at approximately 9:47 PM, the Culpeper Police Department responded to a shooting in the 500 Blk of James Madison. A motorist reported that they heard gun shots and one of the bullets stuck their car. Officers on scene observed that one of the car windows was shattered and a bullet hole was on the door frame. Detectives responded to the scene, collected evidence, and canvassed the immediate area. 

Through the combination of Flock license plate readers and video cameras, Detectives were able to identify multiple witnesses and additional victims. After several days of investigating, detectives identified multiple eye witnesses and an additional vehicle that was struck by bullets. Following the examination of physical evidence, available video and photographic evidence, and the solicitation of eye witness statements, it was determined that the shooting was the result of a physical altercation between young adults on Highview Ct. The original reporting victim was not involved in the altercation and happened to be traveling on the roadway. As a result of the detectives’ findings, the Culpeper Police Department has charged Tyrek Xavier Smith, 19, of Culpeper, with the following:

• 2x counts of felony malicious shooting
• 2x counts of felony malicious shooting into an occupied vehicle
• 1x count of misdemeanor concealed weapon violation
• 2x counts of misdemeanor reckless handling of a firearm
• 2x counts of misdemeanor shooting across a roadway

"Violent crime of this nature will not be tolerated in our community. We will continue to use technology responsibly as an investigative tool, paired with sound police work, to hold violent offenders accountable and keep our citizens safe. We are grateful that no one was injured as a result of this gunfire,” said Chief Chris Settle.

Evidence indicates that Smith brandished a firearm, chased two vehicles on foot, and shot at those vehicles while they were on James Madison Hwy. Detectives are still seeking the firearm involved in this incident. Anyone with any information relevant to this investigation is asked to contact Det. Grimes at (540)829-5506 or email tips@culpeperva.gov. Callers who wish to remain anonymous can submit tips by calling Culpeper Crime Solvers at 540-727-0300 or submit an online tip at culpeperpd.org. 

Attached Photo: Tyrek X. Smith, 19, of Culpeper, VA (XXX)