In the evening hours of Tuesday, May 21, 2024, the life of 17-year-old Timarii Juelz Mason, a Black male, was tragically cut short in Petersburg, Virginia. A student who had recently enrolled at Petersburg High School, Mason was fatally shot in the area of Colston Street and Morton Avenue. The incident unfolded around 8:00 p.m., with residents in the vicinity reporting sounds akin to firecrackers.
Upon their arrival at the scene, law enforcement officers discovered Mason suffering from
gunshot wounds. He was quickly transported to a local hospital for medical attention but ultimately succumbed to his injuries. Another teenager, a 15-year-old, was also found at the scene with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The untimely death of Timarii, affectionately known as 'JuJu,' sent ripples of grief through the community. Those who knew him remembered a young man with a dream of becoming a barber, someone who was quick to bring laughter to those around him. In the wake of the tragedy, Petersburg City Public Schools made counseling services available to students and staff to help them cope with the loss.
As of the latest available information, the Petersburg Police Department's investigation into the homicide is ongoing. No suspects have been publicly identified, and no arrests have been announced in connection with the shooting. Authorities have urged anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward and contact the Petersburg/Dinwiddie Crime Solvers. The case remains an open and active investigation as a family and community continue to mourn the loss of a young life.
