On September 17, 2019, Winchester Police Chief John Piper and Winchester Commonwealth’s Attorney Marc Abrams held a joint press conference on the steps of the Joint Judicial Center to announce indictments in the homicide of Jerry Wayne Reid, Jr.
On December 23, 2018, Winchester Police responded to a report of a shooting in the 300 block of Smithfield Avenue. Once on scene, officers located Mr. Reid, 40, suffering from gunshot wounds. Officers attempted life saving measures until Winchester Fire and Rescue units arrived on scene. Mr. Reid was pronounced deceased at the Winchester Medical Center.
A thorough investigation commenced at the residence on the night of Mr. Reid’s death and has continued to be a priority over the past nine months. Chief Piper recognized the Criminal Investigations Division, specifically Detective Barlow, for their tireless efforts developing evidence and conducting interviews. The team worked closely with the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney while maintaining contact with Mr. Reid’s family throughout the investigation.
On September 17, 2019, the grand jury for the Circuit Court of the City of Winchester indicted three individuals for their involvement in Mr. Reid’s homicide. Commonwealth’s Attorney Marc Abrams announced the indictments as follows:
Edward Nathaniel Bell, Jr., 22, of the 800 block of S. Cameron Street.
- First degree murder, a violation of Virginia Code 18.2-32
- Burglary with firearm, a violation of Virginia Code 18.2-89
- Conspiracy to commit burglary, a violation of Virginia Code 18.2-22
- Attempted robbery (two counts), a violation of Virginia Code 18.2-58
- Use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, a violation of Virginia Code 18.2-53.1
- Convicted felon in possession of firearm, a violation of Virginia Code 18.2-308.2
Xavian Elyse Bell, 21, of the 800 block of S. Cameron Street; and Ronald Emanuel Johnson, 26, of the 1100 block of Franklin Street.
- First degree murder, a violation of Virginia Code 18.2-32
- Burglary with firearm, a violation of Virginia Code 18.2-89
- Conspiracy to commit burglary, a violation of Virginia Code 18.2-22
- Attempted robbery (two counts), a violation of Virginia Code 18.2-58
- Use of firearm in the commission of a felony, a violation of Virginia Code 18.2-53.1
All three individuals are being held at the Northwest Regional Adult Detention Center without bond.