John Quentin Harris, a 43-year-old male, was a man whose life was marked by service and a distinctive personal style. In his younger years, he was a notable figure in the downtown Roanoke scene, known for his mohawks and punk rock fashion. This individuality was paired with a deep-seated desire to serve his country, which he did with honor as a combat medic in the United States Army, completing two tours in Iraq. Even after his active duty, he continued his service in the National Guard.
His commitment to fellow veterans extended into his civilian life as well. After earning a bachelor's degree in business from Roanoke College and later a master's degree, he dedicated his career to helping disabled veterans in the prosthetics department at the VA hospital. His kindness and generosity were well-known, touching the lives of many both professionally and personally.
The afternoon of July 30, 2022, brought a tragic and abrupt end to a life of service and compassion. Around 1:40 p.m., Roanoke Police were dispatched to a residence in the 800 block of Hershberger Road NW following reports of a shooting. Upon their arrival, they discovered John Quentin Harris inside with life-threatening injuries. Despite the immediate response and efforts of Roanoke Fire-EMS, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The violence of that day was not limited to John, as two dogs were also shot. One was found deceased at the home, while the other was rushed to an emergency veterinarian but ultimately succumbed to its injuries.
The investigation into the deadly shooting quickly led to an arrest. The suspect was identified as John's younger brother, 40-year-old Lloyd A. Harris. He was taken into custody and subsequently charged with second-degree murder. Authorities confirmed that the two brothers were known to each other, and they assured the public that there was no ongoing threat. The incident cast a somber shadow over the community, leaving friends and family to mourn the loss of a man who had given so much to others. The case remains an active homicide investigation as the legal process moves forward.
