News

The sound of shattering glass echoed through the center of the Carytown shopping district on the evening of Wednesday September 2nd as vandals targeted windows of the Capital One Cafe.

“We certainly need to acknowledge that what has happened over the last two months is a transformative moment in Richmond history,” Martin said in an interview with VPM. “This work, as part of many monuments on Monument Avenue, gives us an opportunity to explore not only the history of that monument but also the history of this moment.”

Around 10 p.m. Thursday, police said they were monitoring the area around GWARbar, 217 W. Clay St., after a flyer circulated on social media calling for protesters to meet at in the business’ parking lot. Police said the flyer promoted an event “with the potential for violence and vandalism,” and “was shared by a group believed to be linked to recent riots,” though police didn’t identified which group.

“Were it possible to pursue a traditional procurement, the mayor would have done so, but circumstances required him to pursue a different legal avenue and he chose to prioritize protecting lives and property over process,” said Jim Nolan, a Stoney spokesman. “This decision was fully within his authority, and he stands by it.”

Lucas Couturier, was wanted by police for his involvement in an incident that took place on July 25, according to police. The suspect has been charged with misdemeanor arson and felony conspiracy to commit a riot, Richmond police said. Virginia Commonwealth University police also charged Couturier “with several crimes committed” on campus.

Richmond police said the group of people broke windows and damaged and defaced property in several neighborhoods. Mayor Levar Stoney said police could still arrest even more people involved. In a news conference Wednesday, Stoney said rioters with the group “Richmond Strike” were responsible for the vandalism. “I have no clue Richmond Strike is. I’m going to be 100 percent honest with you about that. What I do know is these were individuals who were bent on destruction,” Stoney said.