Virginia law § 18.2-279 prohibits maliciously discharging firearms or missiles at or within occupied buildings, with severe penalties including felonies and potential murder charges. Unlawful acts without malicious intent are also criminalized, especially if they result in death. Discharging a firearm at school buildings is specifically classified as a Class 4 felony.
Discharging firearms or missiles at or within occupied buildings or houses, especially if it endangers lives, is prohibited and punishable by law.
It is classified as a Class 4 felony, with more severe penalties if it results in death, including second-degree murder charges.
Yes, discharging a firearm at or into a school building is a Class 4 felony regardless of whether the building is occupied.
Malicious discharges are done intentionally to endanger lives and carry harsher penalties, while unlawful but non-malicious acts still are criminal offenses with lesser penalties.