Earlier, Varnedoe told reporters investigators were working to identify the victims and notify family members. Varnedoe gave no other details on the victims, and said no arrests have been made.
“I know I am,” he said.
Prince said some shootings were gang-related and one was the result of an argument, one part of a possible retaliation for a domestic dispute and one was a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Other incidents are being investigated for a motive.
“Every resource that this city has to offer, and some that they don’t, we are using to address the crime in our city,” the chief said.
Prince said the only piece missing is the action of Portsmouth citizens.
“Somebody listening knows what led to a shooting. Somebody listening knows who a shooter was, somebody listening has not yet been affected by the violence in our city,” Prince said. “Don’t wait for it to be your turn before you decide to open your mouth to say something.”