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West Ghent neighbors demand answers after chaotic Norfolk street takeover
Police said three vehicles were seized and 19-year-old Isaiah Duncan-Simmons was charged after investigators used videos and tips to identify participants.
A chaotic street takeover erupted at the intersection of Redgate Avenue and Greenway Court in Norfolk's West Ghent neighborhood, where participants used an apparent flamethrower and fireworks to ignite the street.
Takeovers have gained popularity nationwide and in Hampton Roads in recent months, with events organized quickly via social media, leaving local police departments scrambling to respond.
Detective Nicholas Marcus led the arrest of 19-year-old Isaiah Duncan-Simmons of Virginia Beach on Wednesday, charging him with disorderly conduct and damaging property by fire within 48 hours of the incident.
Concerned residents packed St. Andrew's Episcopal Church on Thursday demanding answers from city leaders, with Councilwoman Courtney Doyle calling the 18-minute police response time "an eternity" for those experiencing the chaos.
Chief Talbot promised increased police presence in West Ghent moving forward, while Commonwealth's Attorney Ramin Fatehi stated that "prompt arrest" serves as deterrence against escalating street takeovers.