A tragic shooting in the normally peaceful community of Virginia Beach has resulted in the death of 90-year-old Woodard McClure and the subsequent arrest of a woman on charges of first-degree murder. The incident, which took place on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, in the 500 block of Rodney Lane, has left the neighborhood shaken and mourning the sudden and violent loss of a longtime resident. The Virginia Beach Police Department has confirmed that McClure, who was found lifeless in his garage with a fatal gunshot wound, was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have arrested 43-year-old Jennifer Mulligan, who is now facing charges in connection with the shooting.

The Tragic Incident: A Domestic Conflict Turned Deadly

The shooting occurred late Wednesday morning, around 11:11 a.m., when police received a call about a shooting in a quiet residential neighborhood. Upon arrival, officers discovered the body of Woodard McClure inside the garage of his home. Police reports indicate that McClure had sustained a fatal gunshot wound, and despite efforts by first responders, he could not be revived. The home, as well as the garage, quickly became the focal point of a police investigation, with forensic teams combing the scene for evidence and gathering witness testimonies.

In the hours following the discovery, the Virginia Beach Police Department identified the victim as McClure, a well-known and respected member of the community. Investigators learned that McClure had been living in the area for many years, and his sudden death left his family, friends, and neighbors devastated.

The following day, authorities arrested Jennifer Mulligan, a 43-year-old woman, in connection with McClure’s death. Mulligan has been charged with first-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. Police have indicated that the shooting appears to stem from a domestic-related conflict, but the exact nature of the relationship between McClure and Mulligan has not been disclosed. Investigators confirmed that the two individuals knew each other, though they have withheld further details as the case remains under active investigation.

A Peaceful Neighborhood Shattered

The shooting has sent shockwaves through the neighborhood, which residents describe as quiet, family-oriented, and typically free from violent crime. Wayne Burton, a longtime resident who lives across the street from the scene, expressed disbelief and sorrow over the event. “They’re good people, always been kind to me,” Burton shared in an interview, reflecting the sentiments of many who were struggling to comprehend the violence in such a serene community. Burton, who has lived in the area since 1987, noted that he had never witnessed anything like this before, further highlighting how rare violent incidents are in this part of Virginia Beach.

The presence of police vehicles, detectives, and crime scene investigators disrupted the peaceful suburban atmosphere, as authorities worked tirelessly to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and piece together the events that led to McClure’s tragic death. For residents who had long considered their neighborhood a safe haven, the incident has been a painful reminder of the unpredictable nature of violence, even in the most familiar and secure environments.

The Investigation: Searching for Motive and Understanding the Circumstances

At present, the exact circumstances leading to the shooting remain unclear, though investigators have indicated that the shooting appears to have been domestic in nature. While details regarding the relationship between McClure and Mulligan have not been shared, the suggestion that the incident involved a domestic dispute has raised questions about the dynamics between the two individuals. Authorities have not yet provided any information on whether previous incidents or conflicts may have contributed to the deadly confrontation.

The Virginia Beach Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Unit, which specializes in investigating fatal incidents, is now leading the investigation. Police are working to understand what led to the shooting, and whether there were any earlier signs of conflict between McClure and Mulligan that may have contributed to the escalation. Investigators will likely review past interactions between the two individuals, as well as statements from witnesses who may have been present at the scene or heard something that could shed light on the situation.

In addition to gathering witness testimony, authorities are likely analyzing any forensic evidence found at the scene, including the firearm used in the shooting and any other physical clues that may help determine the sequence of events leading up to McClure’s death. The ongoing investigation is expected to provide more clarity in the coming days, but at present, the exact motives behind the incident remain unknown.

Mulligan’s Arrest and Legal Proceedings

Jennifer Mulligan, the woman arrested in connection with the fatal shooting, remains in custody as she awaits further legal proceedings. At her initial court appearance, Mulligan was formally charged with first-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. Given the nature of the charges, it is expected that Mulligan will face serious legal consequences if she is convicted.

Mulligan’s defense team has not yet commented publicly on the charges, and it is unclear whether she has retained legal representation. The case is expected to draw attention due to the serious nature of the charges and the complex circumstances surrounding the shooting. In cases involving domestic violence, the legal process often delves into sensitive personal histories and may involve testimony from both parties, which can be challenging for both the families involved and the broader community.

As the investigation and legal proceedings continue, authorities will likely focus on determining whether Mulligan’s actions were premeditated or if they were the result of an emotional outburst in the heat of the moment. Investigators will also look at whether mental health issues, stress, or other factors played a role in the fatal incident.

Community Response and Reflection

The loss of Woodard McClure has deeply impacted the Virginia Beach community, especially those who knew him personally. As a 90-year-old man, McClure’s death was especially tragic given his long life and the peaceful years he had spent in the area. While few details have been shared about McClure’s family life, it is clear that his passing will leave a void in the lives of his loved ones. His death, a result of violence in what was considered a safe neighborhood, has sparked both sorrow and a call for reflection on the broader issues surrounding domestic violence, gun ownership, and the safety of elderly individuals.

The event has also prompted increased attention to domestic violence as a broader societal issue. Authorities often take great care in investigating domestic-related homicides, recognizing that these cases often involve complex relationships and underlying issues, including mental health struggles, economic pressures, and unresolved family disputes. In McClure’s case, it is likely that further details will emerge as the investigation progresses, shedding light on the factors that led to the tragic outcome.

The Path Forward: Justice and Healing for the Community

As the investigation into the shooting continues, the primary focus for authorities is to understand the circumstances that led to McClure’s death and ensure that justice is served. The case has drawn attention to the impact of domestic violence on families and communities and the need for continued support and intervention to prevent such tragedies from occurring.

For the community of Virginia Beach, this incident has served as a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of violence, even in the most familiar of surroundings. The ongoing investigation, legal proceedings, and community reflection will be crucial in addressing the underlying causes of such violence and ensuring that steps are taken to prevent future incidents.

As the legal process moves forward, the memory of Woodard McClure and the sorrow of his family will remain at the forefront of public discourse. The community’s hope is that, through continued efforts to address domestic violence and improve public safety, future tragedies like this one can be prevented.

For now, residents of Virginia Beach are left to mourn the loss of a beloved individual while also striving for justice and healing in the aftermath of this devastating event.