Eden police responded to a shooting at Freedom Park on Sunday afternoon. Officers were dispatched around 2:45 pm to the park and were on scene within a minute of the call.
Police apprehended the suspect, John Michael Powell, 35, of Newport News Virginia as he was fleeing the park area, in a Black Chevy Avalanche. The victim, Gwendolyn Lavonne Riddick, 40 of Eden, was found next to her Ford Mustang suffering from numerous gunshot wounds. The shooting took place in the parking lot of the multi-use field in the park. Officers provided aid to Riddick until Rockingham County EMS arrived. She was transported to UNC- Rockingham where she was pronounced dead at approximately 3:00 pm.
During the investigation the shooting was determined to be an isolated incident between the pair who have a child together and had been in an ongoing dispute. Powell has been charged with one count of 1st-degree murder and one count Discharging a weapon into occupied property. Powell was issued no bond on all his charges and remains in custody.
In a statement Eden Police Chief Clint Simpson said, “This is a senseless and tragic loss of life; the family and work family are in our thoughts and prayers. Unfortunately, this incident occurred at Freedom Park in the parking lot, even more senseless, was to commit this act of violence in a location with numerous families and children nearby. I am saddened by the loss of life but I am very proud of the quick response by the officers of the Eden Police Department to give aid to the victim and apprehend the suspect near the crime. I am also proud of our citizens who gathered invaluable information, called 911 and attempted to provide aid to the victim as well. I am thankful and appreciative of the partnership with the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office and their assistance at UNCR Hospital and for District Attorney Jason Ramey responded to Freedom Park to support the victim, officers, and citizens.”
Authorities ae asking with information concerning this incident are asked to contact Detective Tyson Scales or Lieutenant Andrew Kenyi at 336-623-9755 or 336-623-9240. Anyone wishing to provide information and remain anonymous is asked to call Rockingham County Crimestoppers at 336-349-9683.