Petersburg Police Launch Homicide Investigation After Woman Found Dead in Home on Monument Avenue
PETERSBURG, VA – A quiet Petersburg neighborhood was thrust into the spotlight Saturday evening after police discovered the body of a woman inside a residence on Monument Avenue, prompting an immediate and active homicide investigation. Authorities have now identified the victim as Shanquita Robinson, a 34-year-old Petersburg resident whose untimely and tragic death has left the community shocked and grieving.
The incident has drawn a significant police presence to the otherwise peaceful residential corridor, as detectives with the Petersburg Bureau of Police work to determine the circumstances surrounding Robinson’s death. The case is being handled as a homicide, officials confirmed late Saturday.
Discovery and Immediate Response
Officers were called to the 900 block of Monument Avenue around 4:45 p.m. after receiving a welfare check request from concerned relatives who had been unable to reach Robinson throughout the day. Upon arrival, officers forced entry into the home and found Robinson deceased inside, suffering from what authorities described as “injuries consistent with foul play.”
Crime scene tape quickly surrounded the property as forensic investigators arrived to document the scene. Petersburg Police remained on site for several hours into the evening, canvassing the area, interviewing neighbors, and collecting physical evidence from the home.
A spokesperson for the department, Capt. Antoinette Harris, confirmed the active investigation in a brief press statement:
“We can confirm that a homicide investigation is underway. The victim has been identified as Shanquita Robinson, and we are following all leads to determine who is responsible for this tragic act. We ask anyone with information to come forward.”
About the Victim
Shanquita Robinson was known throughout the community as a vibrant and determined woman who had overcome personal challenges to create a better life for herself and her young daughter. Friends describe her as warm-hearted, ambitious, and deeply rooted in her faith and family.
“She loved her little girl more than anything,” said family friend Melissa Vaughn. “She worked hard, kept to herself, and was trying to build a better future. This should never have happened to her.”
Robinson was reportedly working part-time at a local healthcare center and had recently begun taking online classes in hopes of earning a medical billing certification. Loved ones are now left devastated and demanding answers.
Investigation Underway
As of Sunday morning, Petersburg detectives have not released information regarding any suspects or motives, but sources close to the investigation indicate that authorities are looking into Robinson’s recent personal relationships and phone records. The possibility of domestic violence has not been ruled out.
Crime Insider sources suggest that a person of interest may have been seen near the residence late Friday night, and surveillance footage from nearby homes and traffic cameras is currently being reviewed.
No arrests have been made, but police are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Solvers at (804) 861-1212. Tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
Community Reaction
The violent nature of Robinson’s death has left neighbors in disbelief and raised concerns about safety in the area.
“I’ve lived here for 25 years and never seen anything like this,” said Monument Avenue resident Harold Jones. “It’s heartbreaking. Everyone is shaken.”
Community leaders have responded by organizing a vigil for Robinson, set to take place on Monday evening outside her home. Flowers, candles, and handwritten messages have already begun to pile up near her front porch.
City Leaders Speak Out
Mayor Sam Parham issued a statement offering condolences and pledging support for the ongoing investigation:
“Our hearts go out to the family of Shanquita Robinson. This was a senseless act of violence, and we are committed to ensuring justice is served. We urge residents to support one another and help authorities with any information that may assist the case.”
Seeking Justice
As Petersburg mourns the loss of another life to violence, the Robinson family is left to face an unthinkable tragedy. Community members and advocates are renewing calls for expanded resources for domestic violence prevention, mental health services, and neighborhood watch programs.
Shanquita Robinson’s name now joins far too many others whose stories ended in silence behind closed doors. But through this investigation and the voices of those who loved her, her story is being told—and justice will be pursued.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Petersburg Bureau of Police or reach out anonymously through Crime Solvers. Every detail, no matter how small, could help bring closure to a grieving family.
In memory of Shanquita Robinson — a life gone too soon.
