On a cold winter day in Richmond, Virginia, the life of 28-year-old Garry Harrison Jr. was violently cut short. Known affectionately as 'Gee' or 'Geekey' to his friends and family, Harrison was a charismatic man with a love for music, often penning and performing his own rap lyrics. He was also known for his sharp appearance and a surprising passion for reading. Originally from Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, he had made Richmond his home.
On January 7, 2018, on Warwick Avenue in the city's south side, Garry Harrison Jr., a Black male, was murdered.
The investigation into his death was extensive, involving multiple law enforcement agencies and significant community input. As detectives pieced together the events of that tragic day, a complex picture of conspiracy and violence began to emerge. The investigation led to the identification of several individuals believed to be connected to Harrison's murder. One of the initial suspects, Jon W. Alston, would not face earthly justice; he was discovered deceased in a wooded area of South Richmond on March 6, 2018, adding another layer of intrigue to the case.
Ultimately, a series of arrests brought some sense of resolution to Harrison's grieving family. Four individuals were taken into custody and faced serious charges in connection with his killing. Harry E. Braxton III, 26 years old at the time, was charged with conspiracy to commit murder. A more severe set of charges, including first-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and aggravated malicious wounding, were brought against 39-year-old Calvin C. Cooper, 45-year-old Crystal R. Braxton, and 20-year-old Jaqwail V. Braxton. Both Cooper and Jaqwail Braxton also faced charges of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Additionally, 19-year-old Joleal E. Burno was charged with conspiracy to commit murder, rounding out a group of individuals authorities believe were responsible for the untimely death of Garry Harrison Jr.
