In the summer of 2023, the life of 18-year-old Teshawn Damon Archer was abruptly cut short by violence. On the evening of July 12, Henrico County Police responded to a call about a shooting at approximately 8:14 p.m. in the 7700 block of Northbourne Court. Upon their arrival, officers discovered a young male in the parking lot suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite the efforts of first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim was soon identified as Teshawn Damon Archer, a resident of Henrico County.
Teshawn, known for his kind spirit and laid-back demeanor, was a student in the Henrico County Public Schools system with aspirations of joining the United States Army. Those who knew him remembered his radiant smile and playful nature. His sudden death left his family, including his loving mother, father, and numerous siblings, as well as many friends, in deep mourning.
In the days following the shooting, Henrico Police detectives began an intensive investigation, seeking help from the community for any information or video footage from the area around the time of the incident. Their efforts led to a breakthrough a little over two weeks later. On Thursday, July 27, 2023, investigators executed a search warrant at a residence connected to a person of interest.
The execution of the warrant resulted in the arrest of 26-year-old Ra'Quan Shaheim Gordon, also of Henrico County. Gordon was taken into custody without incident. He was subsequently charged with second-degree murder, the use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in connection with the death of Teshawn Archer.
