The gunfire erupted around 2:45 a.m. in the city’s historic Shockoe Bottom neighborhood, an area known for its restaurants and nightlife. Officers nearby reported seeing a large commotion and vehicles speeding away from the scene moments after shots rang out.
Victims Identified
Police Chief Rick Edwards said a fight broke out before escalating into gunfire involving at least two shooters. The victims who died were identified as 42-year-old Dominic Antoine Jackson and 23-year-old Genesis Tamar Jones. Both sustained multiple gunshot wounds and were pronounced dead at the scene.
Seven others — three men and four women ranging in age from 23 to 42 — were transported to hospitals for treatment.
Genesis’ family told local media they had gathered in Richmond to celebrate her younger brother’s birthday. Her brother, Zekiah, said she was simply walking down the street when she was struck by gunfire and was not involved in the altercation.
Officials Respond
Authorities towed six vehicles from the scene for evidence as the investigation continues. Chief Edwards emphasized that the incident did not begin inside a bar or club but escalated from a street fight.
“If you’re carrying firearms, you can’t engage in a normal fight, because it escalates like it did tonight,” Edwards said.
Richmond Mayor Danny Avula called the violence “absolutely heartbreaking,” expressing condolences to the victims’ families and frustration over continued gun violence.
Family members remembered Genesis as “the life of the party,” someone who loved bringing people together. Her brother urged unity and an end to violence, saying no family should have to endure such grief.
