On a tragic Friday, March 31, 2017, the life of 27-year-old VeDal Belgium Chandler was cut short in Saginaw, Michigan. He passed away at St. Mary's of Michigan Medical Center after succumbing to gun violence. Born in Saginaw on January 21, 1990, Chandler was a 2009 graduate of Saginaw High School. He was a father to a daughter, Promise, and a son, Ve'Dal Jr. Those who knew him recall his enjoyment of listening to music, writing, and playing basketball and cards. Above all, he cherished the time he spent with his children and family.
The circumstances surrounding his death pointed to a shooting that occurred while he was in a car in Buena Vista Township, making him the sixth homicide victim in Saginaw County that year. His death was part of a wave of violence that prompted a strong police response in the area. Despite the efforts of law enforcement, Chandler's case remains unsolved, and there is no public information regarding any arrests or identified suspects. The lack of resolution has been a source of frustration and a painful void for his loved ones and the wider community, which was already grappling with a rise in violent, gang-related crime at the time.
Ve'Dal Chandler was preceded in death by his grandparents, a cousin, an uncle, and a nephew. He left behind his parents, Sandra Rowland and Donnie Chandler, his two children, grandparents, six sisters, and four brothers, along with many other relatives and friends who mourn his loss. His family expressed their gratitude to all who offered support during their time of grief. A funeral service was held for him on Tuesday, April 11, 2017, at Mt. Nebo Baptist Church, with his final resting place at Forest Lawn Cemetery.
