RICHMOND, VIRGINIA: A woman was injured in a shooting outside the Republican Party of Virginia’s headquarters in downtown Richmond, prompting a major police investigation and a search for a man allegedly involved in the confrontation.

The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon, October 29, near the Obenshain Center on East Grace Street. Police received reports of gunfire at approximately 1:45 p.m., bringing emergency responders and law enforcement officers to the location.

According to Richmond Police Chief Rick Edwards, the shooting was connected to a dispute inside a nearby hair salon rather than any political activity at the Republican Party headquarters.

Investigators said an ongoing disagreement between individuals associated with the salon escalated into a confrontation. During the incident, a woman inside the business reportedly discharged a firearm after feeling threatened.

Gunfire struck an innocent woman who was standing outside near the Republican Party offices. She was not believed to have been involved in the original dispute.

People at the scene quickly helped the injured woman and brought her inside the party’s headquarters before emergency medical personnel arrived. She was subsequently transported to a hospital with a gunshot injury.

Police described her injuries as non-life-threatening and expected her to recover.

Police Search for Man Allegedly Involved

Investigators later identified Dorian Evans, 34, as a person allegedly involved in the confrontation. According to police, Evans left the scene before officers arrived.

Authorities are seeking him in connection with attempted murder and the use of a firearm during the commission of a felony.

Investigators also believe he may have suffered a gunshot injury during the confrontation. Evidence recovered at the location, including blood traces, has raised concerns about his possible condition.

Police have appealed for information that could help them locate him and establish the complete sequence of events.

Republican Party Confirms Staff Safety

The shooting happened directly outside the Republican Party of Virginia’s headquarters, raising initial concerns because of the location’s political significance.

However, police clarified that the incident was not connected to the Republican Party or its activities.

Party officials confirmed that all employees inside the building were safe. Staff members were reportedly working inside when gunfire erupted outside.

The incident has renewed attention on public safety in downtown Richmond, where residents and workers depend on a secure environment for their everyday activities.

Police continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting and are urging anyone with relevant information to contact the Richmond Police Department.

Authorities have emphasized that the case originated from a personal dispute and should not be interpreted as a politically motivated attack.