GLOUCESTER COUNTY — Gloucester County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Monday to a potential home invasion and shooting in the 4300 block of Bufflehead Drive in Gloucester County.
Upon arrival, at approximately 2:05 a.m., deputies found a 20-year-old male victim who had sustained a gunshot wound to the leg, police said. Police also discovered upon entry that Skyler Merenda, an 18-year-old female, had suffered a gunshot wound. Merenda was pronounced dead at the scene by responding paramedics, police said.
Merenda’s next-of-kin has been notified of her death.
Preliminary investigation and witness interviews suggest an unknown suspect entered the residence and began firing a weapon inside, according to police. Both victims had been recently resided at this location.
Police said the case is actively under investigation by the Criminal Investigations Division, with assistance from the Virginia State Police and the Tidewater Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
Residents of the Carter’s Cove subdivision in Gloucester are asked to check home surveillance systems such as doorbell cameras and game cameras for pedestrian and vehicle traffic between 1-2:30 a.m. on Aug. 15.
Anyone has any information regarding this crime is asked to contact Investigator Patric Graham at 804-693-3890 or the Crime Line at 888-LOCK-U-UP (888-562-5887). Callers may remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash award if their information leads to an arrest. Callers should reference case number 2022-01153.
