Lequan Cherry Fatally Shot Inside Virginia Beach Smoke Shop; Suspect Jeremiah Quinones Faces Multiple Felony Charges Following Preliminary Hearing
Lequan Cherry Fatally Shot Inside Virginia Beach Smoke Shop; Suspect Jeremiah Quinones Faces Multiple Felony Charges Following Preliminary Hearing
On December 30, 2024, a tragic incident unfolded at the Happy Smoke Super Gift Shop on Virginia Beach Boulevard, resulting in the death of 26-year-old Lequan Cherry, a resident of Norfolk, Virginia. The alleged perpetrator, 22-year-old Jeremiah Quinones, also from Norfolk, now faces multiple felony charges, including first-degree murder, malicious wounding, and two counts of using a firearm in the commission of a felony. (WAVY News)
Incident Overview
According to reports, Cherry had stopped at the smoke shop with his girlfriend and their 7-year-old son. While Cherry entered the store, his girlfriend and son remained in the car. Shortly after, Quinones entered the establishment. An altercation ensued between the two men, escalating into violence. Cherry’s girlfriend testified during the preliminary hearing that she heard gunshots from inside the shop. Upon rushing in, she found Cherry gravely injured on the floor. Despite efforts, Cherry succumbed to his injuries at the scene. (City of Virginia Beach)
Investigation and Arrest
The Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) responded promptly to multiple emergency calls reporting the shooting. Upon arrival, officers found Cherry deceased inside the store. Witnesses provided descriptions of the suspect and his vehicle, which were broadcasted to law enforcement agencies. Utilizing license plate reader technology, the VBPD’s Real Time Crime Center identified the suspect vehicle’s previous locations. A Norfolk Police Department officer located the vehicle, and after a brief pursuit, Quinones was apprehended less than an hour after the initial incident. (City of Virginia Beach, WAVY News)
Preliminary Hearing Details
During the preliminary hearing held on March 28, 2025, the prosecution presented key evidence, including surveillance footage from the smoke shop. The video reportedly shows Quinones entering the store, followed by the shooting incident. Cherry’s girlfriend’s testimony corroborated the timeline of events depicted in the footage. Additionally, it was revealed that Quinones returned to the scene twice after the shooting, though the reasons for his return remain unclear.
Legal Proceedings and Community Impact
Quinones faces serious charges that carry significant legal consequences. The case has garnered substantial attention in the Norfolk and Virginia Beach communities, highlighting concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of conflict resolution mechanisms. The swift apprehension of the suspect underscores the importance of inter-agency collaboration and technological advancements in modern policing. (City of Virginia Beach)
Conclusion
The fatal shooting of Lequan Cherry has left a profound impact on his family and the broader community. As the legal process unfolds, the case serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of violence and the critical role of law enforcement in ensuring justice. Further proceedings will determine the outcome for Jeremiah Quinones as the community seeks closure in the wake of this tragedy.
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