Road Rage Turns Deadly in Newport News: Woman Killed in Parking Lot Shooting

A road rage encounter in Newport News escalated into deadly violence, leaving a 51-year-old woman dead and a young man facing serious criminal charges. The incident began on August 26, 2022, as a dispute between drivers along Oyster Point Road. What started as a confrontation on the roadway quickly intensified and ultimately ended in a fatal shooting in a nearby shopping center parking lot.

Road Rage Turns Deadly in Newport News: Woman Killed in Parking Lot Shooting
Crystal Mittelstadter

As-Siddiq Abdul-Aziz Case Summary 

  • Primary Offense: Voluntary Manslaughter

  • Total Sentence Imposed: 10 Years

  • Active Incarceration: 8 Years

  • Suspended Sentence: 2 Years


As-Siddiq Abdul-Aziz Post-Release Supervision

Upon completion of the active portion of the sentence, the following conditions apply:

  • Probation Type: Supervised

  • Probation Duration: 3 Years

Note: A "Suspended Sentence" means that 2 years of the 10-year total are held over the individual’s head. If the conditions of the 3-year supervised probation are violated, a court may require the individual to serve some or all of that remaining 2-year period.

Police identified the suspect as 22-year-old As-Siddiq Abdul-Aziz. Authorities say he shot and killed Crystal Mittelstadter following the altercation.

As-Siddiq Abdul-Aziz Mugshott

What Happened

Investigators determined that the two individuals were involved in a road rage dispute prior to arriving at the parking lot. Witnesses and surveillance footage showed the situation escalating after both vehicles stopped.

Court documents reveal that Abdul-Aziz approached the victim’s vehicle with a firearm. A witness reported seeing him fire a single shot, striking Mittelstadter. She was pronounced dead at the scene. 

Authorities later recovered the weapon and evidence at the scene, while confirming the victim was unarmed.

Charges and Arrest

Abdul-Aziz was taken into custody shortly after the incident. He faces charges including second-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.

Community Impact

The killing sent shockwaves through the Newport News community, particularly among those who knew Mittelstadter. Friends and loved ones described her as kind, welcoming, and a central figure in her neighborhood.

In an emotional response, her partner expressed forgiveness toward the suspect, acknowledging the devastating impact on both families.

A Broader Issue

This case highlights the dangers of road rage incidents, which can escalate rapidly and unpredictably. Law enforcement officials continue to stress the importance of de-escalation and avoiding confrontation while driving.