On Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024, a sense of tragedy befell a Richmond, Virginia community. Daquan Jackie Lamark Mayo, a 14-year-old male, was found lying in the road near the intersection of 4th Avenue and Front Street just before 11:00 p.m. He had sustained a gunshot wound and was immediately transported to a local hospital for medical attention.
Despite the efforts of medical personnel, the young teenager succumbed to his injuries and passed away.
Daquan was an eighth-grade student who was eagerly anticipating the transition to high school, where he looked forward to joining his older cousins. His family described him as a goofy, basketball-loving teenager who was a constant source of laughter and joy. They remember his unique, raspy laugh, which mirrored his mother's, and his ability to light up any room with his vibrant energy. He was known for cracking jokes and was simply a fun person to be around.
The night of the incident, Daquan was reportedly walking home with a group of people, which included his cousin. According to Daquan's aunt, Demetrius Smith, one of the individuals in the group produced a firearm. Moments later, she received a devastating phone call from her son informing her that Daquan had been shot. The family, while grappling with their immense loss, hopes that he will be remembered not for the violent act that ended his life, but for the light and love he brought to his community.
The Richmond Police Department launched a homicide investigation into the shooting. As of the latest available reports, the investigation is still active and ongoing. Authorities have not publicly identified any suspects or made any arrests in connection with the case. Law enforcement officials have urged anyone with information regarding the shooting to come forward to assist in their investigation.
