Bert D. Atienza, 77, of Virginia Beach, died after an assault inside a Walmart in Norfolk, Virginia, and authorities have charged Erika Mitchell, 42, Travis White, 44, and a 17-year-old female in connection with the incident. The case has drawn significant attention as investigators continue working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the deadly altercation.
According to Norfolk Police, officers responded at approximately 3:50 p.m. on Sunday, June 7, to the Walmart located in the 1100 block of North Military Highway after receiving reports of an assault inside the store. Upon arrival, first responders found Atienza unresponsive and suffering from serious injuries.
Emergency medical personnel transported Atienza to a local hospital for treatment. Despite efforts to save him, he later died from the injuries he sustained during the incident. Authorities announced his death the following day.
Investigators said a preliminary investigation determined that Atienza had been involved in an altercation with other individuals inside the store before the assault occurred. Detectives worked to gather witness statements, review evidence, and determine the sequence of events that led to the violent encounter.
As a result of the investigation, police charged Mitchell and White with malicious wounding by mob, aggravated malicious wounding, and conspiracy to commit a felony. Both suspects are being held without bond at the Norfolk City Jail.
A 17-year-old female was also charged with assault and battery, aggravated malicious wounding, and conspiracy to commit a felony. She is currently being held at the Norfolk Juvenile Detention Center.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding what led to the altercation or the specific roles of those charged. Norfolk Police have stated that the investigation remains active and ongoing as detectives continue to examine all available evidence related to the fatal assault.
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