Victim Identified in Portsmouth Homicide, Homeowner Arrested

Norfolk Portsmouth Newport News, VA, September 30, 2026 — Portsmouth police announced Thursday the identification of Gordon Randolph Tillman Jr. as the homicide victim discovered at a residence located on Elliot Avenue. The discovery follows an investigation initiated due to Tillman’s disappearance.

Authorities have apprehended the homeowner, identified as Gregory Coffey, in connection with the case. Coffey is reportedly facing charges that include first-degree murder and desecration of human remains. The arrest was made after a period of investigation into Tillman’s whereabouts.

Details regarding the exact timeline of Tillman’s disappearance, the circumstances of his death, or the specific dates of the investigation were not immediately available. The police department has stated that the investigation is ongoing. The property on Elliot Avenue was secured as a crime scene to facilitate the forensic examination and evidence collection.

Further information is expected to be released by the Portsmouth Police Department as the investigation progresses. The charges against Gregory Coffey indicate a serious legal process is now underway, with proceedings to be handled within the judicial system. The amount of any potential fines or specific details of sentencing for the alleged offenses were not provided at this stage.

The investigation aims to establish a comprehensive account of the events leading up to and following Gordon Randolph Tillman Jr.’s death. The outcome of the legal proceedings will depend on evidence gathered and presented in court. No additional parties have been named in connection with the incident at this time. The specific cause of death for Tillman has not been publicly disclosed by investigators.

Efforts are underway to provide support and information to the victim’s family. The police department has not released further details concerning the suspect’s motive or any potential accomplices. The investigation remains active, and investigators are seeking to ensure all aspects of the case are thoroughly examined. The precise nature of the desecration of human remains charge will be detailed through further legal filings.

The case has been referred to the relevant prosecuting authorities for further action. The investigation is being conducted by the Portsmouth Police Department’s detective bureau. The contractor’s name, if any was involved in handling remains or securing the property, was not provided. The inspection outcomes related to the property’s condition were not made public. No code violations were explicitly mentioned in the initial report.

The timeline for future court appearances for Gregory Coffey has not yet been set.

This is a developing story, and more information will be reported as it becomes available. The location of the property on Elliot Avenue is a residential area within Portsmouth.

Story summarized from the original created by Web Staff on www.wtkr.com, see more information here.