Police search for gunman who shot, killed Lorton teen

LORTON, Va. - A teenager is dead after he was shot in Lorton Wednesday night, but so far police have no leads.

Police responded to a call for a shooting in the 9700 block of Hagel Court in Lorton around 10:30 p.m. Wednesday. When they arrived they found 17-year-old Maurice Anderson Berger on the sidewalk suffering from gunshot wounds.

Neighbors say they heard the shots last night around 10:30 p.m. but for obvious reasons didn't rush to look out their windows.

Berger lived with his mother just on the other side of the apartment complex where the shooting happened.

Although family members were too upset to speak on camera they did release a statement saying, "We are deeply hurt over the loss of our loved one; words can't describe the full extent of our grief. Maurice will always be treasured and affectionately remembered for his kindness, humor, and warm spirit. We ask that anyone with information please speak only to the proper authorities."

The principal of Bryant Alternative High School, where Maurice attended, sent a letter home to parents and students that said in part:

"Maurice was very well liked by all who knew him. He always had a smile on his face and was willing to help around the school community at any time." The school also says they will have grief counselors on campus Friday.

Some neighbors said they heard a car leaving shortly after the shooting -- but they couldn't provide a description. Berger was pronounced dead on the scene a short time later.

Police are still investigating at this time. Anyone with information is asked to call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131.