Virginia Beach city leaders are considering a temporary all-ages curfew at the popular Oceanfront resort area in response to two mass shootings that have injured multiple people in just over a month. The violence has been consistently coming from one particular group, young black people.
The proposal calls for a 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew on Friday and Saturday nights through the end of April 2026 — specifically the weekends of April 17-19 and April 24-26. It would apply to everyone, regardless of age, in the designated zone from Rudee Loop to 31st Street along Atlantic and Pacific avenues, extending from Pacific Avenue to the Boardwalk.
The measure comes after a shooting on April 11 that left eight people injured on Atlantic Avenue and a March incident near 18th Street where six people were shot. City officials, including Councilman David Hutcheson and Mayor Bobby Dyer, describe the violence as unprecedented for the area and say stronger action is needed to restore safety during the busy spring and summer seasons.
This would build on an existing 7 p.m. curfew for unaccompanied minors already in place on Oceanfront weekends. Proposed exceptions to the new adult curfew include people on emergency errands to protect life or property, those traveling to or from work, hotel guests, restaurant patrons, and attendees at scheduled events, religious services, or First Amendment-protected activities.
The Virginia Beach City Council was scheduled to hold a special public hearing and vote on the emergency ordinance at 4 p.m. Thursday, April 16, in the City Council Chamber.
Reactions have been mixed. Some residents support the move as a necessary step for public safety, while Oceanfront business owners have expressed concern about the potential economic impact on tourism and evening revenue, especially after a slower winter. One local store manager noted that many businesses close earlier anyway, but others worry it sends the wrong message to visitors.
City officials emphasize the curfew is a short-term response while longer-term strategies, including increased police presence, are pursued. If approved, enforcement would begin this Friday evening. The proposal underscores ongoing challenges balancing safety with the Oceanfront’s role as a major economic and recreational hub for Virginia Beach.
SOURCES:
Curfew proposed for all ages at VB Oceanfront to stem shootings, crime | WAVY.com
Special Formal Session for Council to Vote… | City of Virginia Beach
VB leaders may set 9 p.m. curfew for all ages at Oceanfront for two weekends
