Richmond, Va. — The Richmond Police Department is investigating a potential breakthrough in a cold case that could have significant implications in solving a homicide. Detectives are currently working to identify a man who may have been disguised at the time of the incident, which they believe could be a key lead in their ongoing investigation.
While police have not disclosed specific details about the case—including the date, time, or location of the incident—they emphasized the importance of verifying the information provided by the public. Detective Sergeant George Wade of the Richmond Police Department’s Major Crimes Division spoke to 8News about the challenges investigators face in solving such cases, particularly when limited details are available.
“In other cases, we often have pictures from the scene of the crime, which can help us pinpoint exactly where it happened,” said Wade. “Having someone call in with more specific details—like knowing where the suspect lives or the direction they might have traveled after the incident—could make it much easier to verify the information and move forward with the case.”
Detectives are hopeful that this new lead will help bring clarity to the investigation, as the department has made notable progress with other cold cases in recent years. So far in 2025, six cold cases have been cleared, with four of those coming from the previous year.
Wade shared one particular case that was closed due to a crucial tip from an individual who had knowledge of the homicide but had not initially come forward. Although the suspect in that case had already passed away, the person provided key details to the victim’s family, which allowed the department to close the case and bring closure to the grieving relatives.
While Richmond Police work diligently on this latest cold case, they are encouraging anyone with relevant information to step forward. Those with tips or knowledge are urged to contact Detective Sergeant George Wade at (804) 646-0606 or Detective J. Crewell at (804) 646-5324.
The department is hopeful that the public’s assistance can shed light on this important case and bring justice to the victim’s family.
