In the early evening of October 3, 2024, a tragedy unfolded in the parking lot of a McDonald's on Nine Mile Road in Henrico County, Virginia, that would claim the life of a beloved community member. James Albert Brandon Jr., a 55-year-old Black male from Richmond, was fatally shot after he attempted to de-escalate a heated argument between a man and a woman. A father of four and grandfather to four more, Brandon Jr. was known for his compassionate nature and willingness to step in and help others.
The incident occurred at approximately 7:08 p.m., when Henrico Police were called to the scene for a reported shooting. Upon their arrival, they discovered a crime scene but no victim or suspect. It was soon revealed that Brandon Jr. had been privately transported to a local hospital with a life-threatening gunshot wound. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries.
Through their investigation, law enforcement quickly identified 64-year-old Tony Mario Johnson, a resident of Richmond, as the suspect in the shooting. Johnson was located and arrested without incident while driving near Peter Paul Boulevard and Fairfield Avenue. Charges related to the homicide are pending against him. The community mourned the loss of Brandon Jr., with his funeral services held on October 18, 2024, at Wilson & Associates' Funeral Service - East Chapel in Richmond.
