In the summer of 2022, the city of Hopewell, Virginia, was rocked by a violent act that claimed the life of 14-year-old Micah Coles. On the night of Friday, June 24, officers were dispatched to the area of Elm Street and Arlington Road after reports of gunfire. Upon their arrival, a grim discovery was made on the railroad tracks nearby. Micah, along with 18-year-old Jasir Culver of Petersburg, were found lying lifeless, having sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Hopewell Fire and EMS personnel pronounced both teenagers deceased at the scene.
The tragedy that befell Micah and Jasir was part of a larger incident that left two other teenagers, both 15 years old, wounded by gunfire. Fortunately, these two individuals survived and were transported to a local hospital for treatment with expectations of recovery. The incident sent shockwaves through the community, leaving residents fearful and mourning the senseless loss of young lives.
In the wake of the double homicide, the Hopewell Police Department launched an intensive investigation. While detectives were able to develop several leads in the case, they have yet to make any arrests. The authorities have made public appeals for more information and evidence to help bring those responsible to justice. The families of the victims have been vocal in their pleas for anyone with knowledge of the events of that night to come forward.
Micah's mother, Jeanette Johnson, has been a prominent voice in the call for justice, offering a $2,500 reward for information that leads to an arrest. The community continues to grapple with the violent loss of two of its young members as the investigation remains ongoing. Law enforcement continues to urge anyone with information to contact the Hopewell Police Department or to provide anonymous tips through the Hopewell Prince George Crime Solvers hotline.
