In the early evening of January 29, 2022, the life of 51-year-old Vernon Pope Jr., a Black male, was tragically cut short in a shooting that occurred in Richmond, Virginia. Responding to a report of a person shot at approximately 6:33 p.m., Richmond Police officers arrived at the Belt Atlantic Apartments in the 4000 block of Midlothian Turnpike. Inside one of the apartments, they discovered Pope unresponsive, having sustained an apparent gunshot wound.
Despite the efforts of first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Vernon, affectionately known as 'Man' to his family and friends, was a father, a son, and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. He had served his country during Operation Desert Storm, earning several accommodations and medals before his honorable discharge in 1991. Known for his love for his children and family, he was also a stage-4 cancer survivor, a testament to his resilience. He worked as an independent contractor and was a certified electrical engineer.
The Richmond Police Department quickly launched a homicide investigation into Pope's death. Detectives from the Major Crimes unit are actively working the case, which remains under investigation. Authorities have not publicly disclosed a motive for the shooting, and as of the latest available reports, no arrests have been made in connection with the homicide. There has been no public identification of any suspects. Investigators have urged anyone with information to come forward and contact Major Crimes Detective J. Crewell or Crime Stoppers.
