Teen Injured in Shooting at Hillsville Flea Market; Local Man Charged

HILLSVILLE, VA — VintonVoice.com – A teenager was seriously injured following a shooting during the Hillsville Memorial Day Flea Market, prompting local authorities to charge a 49-year-old Hillsville man in connection with the incident.

According to the Hillsville Police Department, Richard Dale Lee has been arrested and charged with malicious wounding and reckless handling of a firearm after allegedly shooting a 17-year-old male in the back with a semi-automatic .40 caliber pistol.

The incident occurred shortly before 1 a.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025, though police believe the actual shooting took place hours earlier in the area of 1010 West Stuart Drive, where vendor tents had been set up for the town’s annual flea market event.

Emergency services from Carroll County EMS responded to a nearby apartment complex where the teen was initially reported to have been shot. A swift investigation led officers to determine the shooting stemmed from a brief encounter at a vendor tent related to the flea market festivities.

The victim’s identity has not been released due to age. His current condition has not been made public, but police have confirmed he was transported for medical care.

About the Hillsville Flea Market

The Hillsville Flea Market & Gun Show, held annually over Memorial Day weekend, is one of the largest outdoor markets in the Southeastern United States. Drawing over 250,000 visitors to the small town of Hillsville, Virginia, the event transforms the normally quiet Carroll County seat into a bustling hub of activity.

Vendors come from across the country to set up booths along Route 58 and throughout the town, offering everything from antiques, collectibles, tools, military surplus, vintage toys, furniture, and firearms. The event has been a local tradition for decades, bringing tourism dollars and national attention to this Blue Ridge Mountain community.

While the flea market is widely celebrated for its economic and cultural value, this year’s incident has cast a shadow over the festivities. Hillsville officials and law enforcement emphasized that the event is generally safe, and that this isolated incident does not reflect the overall atmosphere of the market.

Community Response

Local vendors and attendees expressed shock and disappointment that violence had disrupted an otherwise family-friendly tradition.

“People come here to have fun, shop, and enjoy the mountain air. This is not something we ever expected to happen,” said one longtime vendor who witnessed the aftermath.

Police have not released details on what may have led to the altercation between Lee and the teen. The investigation is ongoing.

Authorities are encouraging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has additional information to contact Hillsville Police directly.

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