RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond Police Chief Gerald Smith credited a “hero citizen” with the information that “saved many lives on the Fourth of July.”
The July 1 alert involved a man or men “threatening to commit a mass shooting on or about the 4th of July” at the city’s Dogwood Dell fireworks celebration in Richmond.
Chief Smith said officials also focused on celebrating the Fourth of July at the Diamond in Richmond.
“Their intention was to film our Fourth of July celebration,” Smith said.
Chief Smith was unable to provide additional details or a motive for the mass shooting.
Information led police to Julio Alvardo and his home in Richmond.
“Detectives conducted surveillance at an address associated with the suspect and observed activity,” a police spokesman said. “A knock and talk was conducted and the male was inside.”
Police said a search of the home recovered two rifles, a handgun and ammunition from the home.
“Unfortunately, the suspect did not have any weapons in his room and did not make any incriminating statements,” a police spokesman wrote. “Homeland Security Investigations [HSI] was consulted regarding the weapons and they advised that the owner was prohibited from possessing any. He was imprisoned and charged with alien possession of a firearm.”
The second suspect was kept under police surveillance over the holiday weekend and arrested on July 5.
This is a developing story, so anyone with more information can email newstips@wtvr.com to submit a tip.
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