05/30/2026
🚨 Clifton Forge Man Charged Following Reported Shooting Incident 🚨
The Clifton Forge Police Department is investigating a shooting incident that occurred at approximately 8 p.m. on Friday, May 29, in the 900 block of Girard Avenue.
According to police, officers were dispatched after receiving a report of shots fired at a vehicle. The victim was able to leave the area safely and return home. Officers later responded to the victim's residence, where they processed the vehicle and confirmed it had been struck by gunfire.
Police detained a suspect near the scene and, following an investigation, charged Derrick McKinley Hatcher Jr. with:
• Four counts of Attempted Malicious Wounding (Virginia Code 18.2-51)
• One count of Shooting at or Throwing Missiles at a Vehicle (Virginia Code 18.2-154)
Hatcher is currently being held at the Alleghany Regional Jail without bond.
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges are pending.
Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact Investigator V. L. Bowman at 540-863-2513.
This story is based on information released by the Clifton Forge Police Department. All criminal charges are allegations, and the accused is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
