As summer approaches, the city of Virginia Beach seems to increase in violent crimes. With tourist season up, ahead rising rates of violent crimes poses a threat to both locals and visitors. While the crime rates show a decline compared to other years, it still poses a concern to upcoming tourists.
On April 11, a shooting occurred on the 1400 block of Atlantic Ave, resulting in 8 people injured. On March 22, three people were found with gunshot wounds on the 1200 block of Fordham Drive. On March 7, five people were found injured after a shooting on the 1800 block of Atlantic Ave.
These are only three of the many shootings that have spurred since the beginning of 2026 in Virginia Beach, resulting in over 20+ victims.
A temporary all age curfew at 9:30 p.m. has been proposed as a result of shootings as of April 16, along with a curfew for all minors from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. that was enforced before spring break.
While the curfews help, it doesn’t stop tourist season, and as it continues to get closer to summer, Virginia Beach may be at high risk for even more violent crimes as it grows in visitors.
Not only does this risk harm the city of Virginia Beach but it can harm the local businesses, especially ones at popular tourist spots. Potential tourists may be skeptical to visit Virginia Beach if it continues to grow in violence which may lead to businesses losing out on customers during their busiest time of the year.
“I’m worried about business, as we’ve recently tried to be more family friendly.” manager Jon Adams of Ocean House Waterfront Seafood said. Ocean House is a popular restaurant at the oceanfront.
Curfews may help, but they are certainly not a solution to this rising issue as they only reduce the risk and don’t get rid of it entirely. The police themselves will not be able to control all violence during this summer; however, parents should contribute by assuring that their children are safe with extra supervision.
