Virginia Beach police say man who died in standoff likely killed by officers’ gunfire
The man who died on Decathlon Drive after a standoff with Virginia Beach police on Monday night was likely killed by police gunfire, according to new details released by police Wednesday morning.
After exchanging gunfire with police, Craig Byl, 48, was found just inside his front door, dead from gunshot wounds. Police said Tuesday it wasn’t clear if they were self-inflicted, but now say the investigation “indicates Mr. Byl’s injuries were the result of police gunfire.” The Norfolk Medical Examiner will determine the cause of death.
Police released a statement on the shooting Wednesday indicating all involved officers have been placed on administrative leave, but the statement did not disclose how many officers were involved.
The Virginia Beach Police Department’s Homicide Unit is conducting a criminal investigation and will turn evidence over to the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, which will determine if there were any violations of the law. The commonwealth attorney will also conduct an investigation.
On Monday night, police responded to the 1900 block of Decathlon Drive in the Lake Placid neighborhood after receiving reports that a man inside a single-family home had several guns and ammunition. He was threatening to harm himself and others, police said.
Police evacuated a woman from the home. Byl, who was believed to be the only occupant of the home, had a shotgun. He went in and out of the front door, pointing the shotgun at himself, police said.
Police spoke with Byl for almost three hours and tried to get him to give up the gun. At around 12:14 a.m., Byl came outside again, this time with a handgun that he pointed at his head. Police say this continued for the next hour.
At 1:15 a.m., police “deployed less-lethal munitions” at Byl, attempting to subdue him to bring him into custody.
“The rounds did not have the desired effect,” according to the news release.
Byl fled into the house and began firing shotgun rounds at police through the windows. Police said it appeared he transitioned to shooting with the handgun at some point. Police shot back at Byl.
After gunfire ceased, the police department’s SWAT team entered the home and found Byl just inside the front door.
Police found a shotgun, a 9mm pistol and several spent cartridge cases inside the home.
A police spokesperson could not be reached Wednesday morning to answer additional questions and to explain what less-lethal munitions were used. At the end of the two criminal investigations by police and prosecutors, the police internal affairs bureau will conduct an administrative review to determine compliance with policy and training.
Anyone struggling with mental health can call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988.
Cianna Morales, 757-957-1304, cianna.morales@virginiamedia.com
