On the afternoon of January 21, 2021, 28-year-old Samantha Rachael Robinson was driving a white Hyundai sedan on 12th Street near Pierce Street in Lynchburg, Virginia, when she was struck by what investigators believe was a stray bullet. Witnesses in her vehicle described hearing a sound like a rock hitting the car as the group passed the C&C Mini Mart. Responding officers found Ms. Robinson behind the wheel with a gunshot wound; she later died from her injuries.

The Lynchburg Police Department and the FBI’s Richmond South Piedmont Violent Gang Task Force are handling the investigation. Authorities say Samantha Robinson was not believed to be the intended target and that no arrests have been made. Her young son is now being raised by Samantha’s mother, who has publicly appealed for justice. The FBI is offering up to a $10,000 reward for information leading to identification, arrest, and conviction.

If anyone saw activity near 12th and Pierce on January 21, 2021, or has information about shots fired in that area, please come forward.