– Woman shattered windows
– Woman fired gun before Newport News police officer shot and killed her.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Newport News police chief, Steve Drew, revealed that the woman shot to death by a police officer in the early hours of Saturday was causing a disturbance at a Southeast Newport News apartment complex before law enforcement arrived. The woman, identified as 38-year-old Monae Bonapart, was reportedly shooting her gun and frightening residents at the Stuart Gardens complex off 16th Street. Several residents made frantic calls to 911 at around 2:20 a.m., alerting authorities to the situation.
Upon arrival, officers heard additional gunfire before coming face-to-face with Bonapart in a small courtyard. The body camera footage captured officers urging her to put the gun down and attempting to de-escalate the tense situation. Despite their efforts, Bonapart continued to pick up and put down the firearm, posing a threat to the officers.
Officer’s Decision to Fire
According to Chief Drew, one officer managed to get a clearer view of Bonapart and reported that she pointed the firearm in his direction, prompting him to fire his weapon. The exact number of shots fired was not disclosed, but Drew confirmed that there was a significant distance between the officer and Bonaparte during the incident. This distance may have affected the clarity of the body camera footage, which is currently under scrutiny.
The body cam footage from other officers on the scene was partially obstructed by the protective shields they were using, further complicating the investigation. The final determination of the officer’s actions will be made by Newport News Commonwealth’s Attorney, Howard Gwynn.
Events Leading to the Shooting
Drew outlined the events that transpired before the fatal shooting. Bonapart had called a male friend in the early hours, requesting a ride from Portsmouth to either Hampton or Newport News. During the ride, an argument ensued between Bonapart and another woman in the vehicle, leading to a tense situation where Bonapart brandished a firearm.
As the situation escalated, Bonapart ordered the passenger out of the vehicle at gunpoint and directed the driver to specific locations. The chaotic drive resulted in Bonapart striking the driver and causing damage to several parked vehicles on 16th Street. Subsequent calls from alarmed residents in Stuart Gardens alerted authorities to the unfolding crisis.
De-escalation Efforts and Tragic Outcome
Upon their arrival, officers engaged in dialogue with Bonapart for approximately 10 to 12 minutes, attempting to persuade her to surrender the weapon and peacefully resolve the situation. Despite their efforts, Bonapart remained agitated and uncooperative, eventually leading to the fatal confrontation.
Chief Drew expressed his condolences to Bonapart’s family, acknowledging the profound loss they are experiencing. He emphasised the need for respect and compassion towards the grieving family, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The shooting in Stuart Gardens has left residents shaken, with reports of shattered windows and damaged property. As the investigation continues, authorities are analysing all available evidence to determine the sequence of events and the justification for the officer’s actions.
Police are also looking into the origin of the firearm used by Bonapart, which was found to have been stolen from a home in Portsmouth in 2023. The community is urged to come together in support of the affected families and to uphold a sense of unity and understanding during this challenging time.
For further enquiries, contact Peter Dujardin at 757-897-2062 or pdujardin@dailypress.com
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– Woman shattered windows
– Fired gun before Newport News police officer shot and killed her.
