By Associated Press - Monday, September 24, 2018

CHRISTIANSBURG, Va. (AP) - A case against a former Virginia Tech student accused of illegally possessing an assault weapon has been tossed out.

News outlets report a judge dismissed Yunsong Zhao’s case, citing a lack of evidence presented by prosecutors. Defense attorneys had filed a motion to dismiss Monday.

The Chinese national had been accused of equipping an AR-15 with a 30-round magazine at a shooting range. Virginia prohibits non-citizens from having guns with magazines holding more than 20 rounds.

People were interested in these podcasts

An undercover detective said he saw Zhao shooting a 30-round magazine but couldn’t get video or call backup before Zhao left. A salesman also said he sold Zhao a 30-round magazine, but couldn’t produce a receipt.

Zhao remains in immigration custody and has a hearing set for Thursday.

Copyright © 2026 The Washington Times, LLC.

Story Topics

Please read our comment policy before commenting.