HARRISONBURG, Va. — A man shot multiple times inside an apartment is now accused of being an armed intruder, police said.
Preston Crawford, 19, of Broadway, faces four felony charges, including breaking and entering with intent to commit murder and conspiracy to commit a felony.
Crawford is also charged with displaying a firearm while committing a felony and concealing his identity by wearing a mask or other covering, both felonies, and removing, altering or obliterating a firearm serial number, a misdemeanor.
According to an October 6, 2026 Harrisonburg Police Department media statement, police received a report of multiple gunshots at 4:52 p.m. in the 200 block of Vine Street on September 1.
A second male caller reported that he had shot someone who broke into his apartment.
Police said security footage from inside the apartment later showed Crawford and a 15-year-old entering the residence.
Crawford entered first with a handgun pointed in front of him, according to police.
When resident Joshua Dean saw Crawford pointing the firearm at him, Dean opened fire, striking Crawford multiple times, police said.
First responders found Crawford suffering from multiple gunshot wounds and provided aid before he was taken by ambulance to Sentara RMH Medical Center and later flown to UVA Medical Center.
Crawford suffered serious injuries but was in stable condition.
Police said information gathered during the investigation also led officers to execute a search warrant at the Howard Johnson on East Market Street in Harrisonburg.
Dean, 18, has been charged with felony possession with intent to distribute a Schedule I or II drug.
The 15-year-old who police said entered the apartment with Crawford has been charged with breaking and entering with intent to commit murder and as a principal in the second degree (both felonies).
This is still an active, open investigation, and more charges may be filed.
Anyone with information on this shooting should call 540-434-4436 and ask to speak with Detective Urrutty or visit www.harrisonburgva.gov/tip-411.
Both methods are anonymous, and information leading to the arrest of a suspect may be eligible for a reward through Crime Solvers.