FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 29, 2020
UPDATE: Tajuan Allen, the suspect wanted in connection the murder of DreShawn McDonald, has been taken into custody in Pennsylvania.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 28, 2020
The Charlottesville Police Department is investigating a homicide that occurred on Saturday, November 28, 2020, at 0503 hours in the 700 block of McIntire Road.
Officers responded for reports of multiple shots fired in the area and located a female suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. She was transported to UVA Hospital, but died a short time later.
The victim is identified as Tanya Renee Wheeler, a 31-year-old resident of Charlottesville. The Charlottesville Police Department extends its condolences to the family and friends of Ms. Wheeler.
The CPD forensics staff processed the scene for hours and collected more than 30 bullet casings related to the homicide, resulting in traffic being diverted for an extended period of time this morning. All roadways have since been reopened.
This is the third homicide in the City of Charlottesville this month. On November 5th, DreShawn McDonald was murdered in the 900 block of South 1st Street. Warrants have been obtained for Tajuan Allen related to McDonald’s murder, who remains at large. On November 14th, Tiewan Benston was murdered in the 700 block Orangedale Avenue. Bryan Hatcher was arrested on charges related to Benston’s murder.
All three cases are being actively investigated by the Investigations Bureau of the Charlottesville Police Department. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Charlottesville Police Department at (434) 970-3280 or Crime Stoppers at (434) 977-4000.
A reward is available through Crime Stoppers for information leading to an arrest. Anyone providing information to Crime Stoppers may remain anonymous.
Media Contact
Tyler Hawn
Public Information Officer
Charlottesville Police Department
434-409-3439
hawnto@charlottesville.gov