Semaj Coleman Shooting Virginia Obituary: Norfolk State University Mourns Student Killed in Accidental Shooting

The Norfolk State University (NSU) community is in mourning following the tragic death of 22-year-old student Semaj Richelle Coleman. Coleman, a senior health services management major, died after suffering a life-threatening gunshot wound late Friday, October 24, 2026. Authorities have confirmed the incident was accidental and occurred within a parking lot located in the 5700 block of East Virginia Beach Boulevard in Norfolk, Virginia.

Law enforcement officials were alerted to the emergency at approximately 11:45 p.m. on Friday when Coleman arrived at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital with critical injuries. Despite the efforts of medical staff, she succumbed to her wounds. A 23-year-old man, identified as Matthew B. Croslin of Newport News, has been taken into custody and charged in connection with the incident.

Here is what authorities have confirmed about the incident.

Incident Timeline: The Fatal Shooting in Norfolk

• Emergency Dispatch: Norfolk Police were notified at approximately 11:45 p.m. on Friday, October 24, 2026, regarding a gunshot victim transported to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.
• Initial Investigation: Detectives determined the shooting took place in the parking lot of the 5700 block of East Virginia Beach Boulevard.
• Suspect Taken Into Custody: Matthew B. Croslin, 23, was apprehended by Norfolk authorities at the scene of the incident.
• Formal Charges: Following preliminary investigation, Croslin was charged with involuntary manslaughter and reckless handling of a firearm.
• Legal Status: The accused is currently being held at the Norfolk City Jail without bond pending further legal proceedings.

Circumstances of the Incident and Official Statements

The preliminary investigation by the Norfolk Police Department characterizes the shooting as an accidental event involving a firearm. The incident occurred during the late hours of Friday, resulting in a swift response from emergency services. While the investigation remains ongoing, the authorities have moved to process the scene to ensure all forensic evidence is collected.

“The preliminary investigation determined that the shooting was accidental and occurred in a parking lot in the 5700 block of East Virginia Beach Boulevard.” — Norfolk Police Department Spokesperson

Semaj Coleman was a dedicated senior at Norfolk State University. Beyond her academic pursuits in health services management, she was an active participant in the school’s “Spartans Promise to Persist with Purpose” program and had recently achieved induction into the National Association for Allied Health Professionals. Her sudden death has deeply impacted classmates, faculty, and the broader university administration as they cope with the loss of a student nearing the completion of her degree.

Active Investigation and Public Appeal

The Norfolk Police Department is continuing to piece together the events surrounding the evening of October 24. Forensic teams are analyzing physical evidence found at the 5700 block of East Virginia Beach Boulevard to corroborate witness statements and verify the chain of events that led to the accidental discharge of the firearm.

• Investigation Status: Detectives from the Norfolk Criminal Investigations Bureau are managing the case. Charges against Matthew B. Croslin are formal allegations, and the case will proceed through the court system.
• Public Safety Update: No further threats to the general public have been reported following the arrest of the suspect.
• Information Appeal: Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who possesses surveillance footage from the area to come forward. Residents can provide information anonymously through the local Crime Stoppers tip line or by contacting the Norfolk Police Department directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the latest official update on this incident?

Authorities have confirmed that 22-year-old NSU student Semaj Richelle Coleman passed away from a gunshot wound on Friday night. A 23-year-old male, Matthew B. Croslin, is in police custody and faces charges of involuntary manslaughter and reckless handling of a firearm.

Who is leading the investigation into the shooting?

The investigation is being led by the Norfolk Police Department. They have classified the event as an accidental shooting and are currently processing evidence from the parking lot scene on East Virginia Beach Boulevard.

How can eyewitnesses share information or video footage?

Members of the public with relevant information or video evidence regarding the incident on October 24 are encouraged to contact the Norfolk Police Department. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the local Crime Stoppers program.