In the early hours of December 26, 2023, the sound of gunshots echoed through the 1400 block of St. Michaels Way in Newport News, Virginia. When police officers arrived at the scene at 1:28 a.m., they discovered a man outside, suffering from at least one life-threatening gunshot wound. The victim was identified as 38-year-old Demario Jevon Mapp. He was quickly transported to a local hospital for medical attention, but he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
Demario, a male resident of
Hampton, was remembered as a funny and loving person with a memorable smile. He had attended Statesboro High School and furthered his education at Ogeechee Technical College. He also pursued a trade in barbering at Tomorrow's Image Barbering School in Newport News and was employed at Southern Plumbing & Heating Supply. He was a father of two children, Demarion and Amari Mapp.
In the wake of the shooting, Newport News Police Department detectives began canvassing the area for any leads, and the forensics team processed the scene for evidence. At the time of the initial reports, there was no information available about a potential suspect, and the investigation into Demario's death remained active. As of early 2024, no arrests had been publicly announced in connection with the homicide.
