In the early hours of New Year's Day 2013, the life of 31-year-old Carlton 'CJ' Richard Holland Jr. was tragically cut short in Suffolk, Virginia. A male, known for his kind heart and poetic soul, Carlton was attending a lively New Year's Eve party in the 400 block of Linden Avenue. As the night's celebrations turned to the dawn of a new year, gunfire erupted, and Carlton was struck in the upper chest.
First responders discovered him in the road, and he was rushed to Sentara Norfolk
General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at approximately 3:55 a.m. The promising young man, remembered by his loved ones as sweet and lovable, became the city's first homicide victim of the year. His family and friends were left grappling with the sudden and senseless loss of a man who, by all accounts, did not bother anyone.
In the decade that has passed since Carlton Holland Jr.'s untimely death, his case has grown cold. Despite the fact that numerous people were present at the party, no witnesses have come forward with information that could lead to an arrest. The Suffolk Police Department has repeatedly appealed to the public for assistance, urging anyone who was there that night or who has any knowledge of the shooting to break their silence. They believe that even a small, seemingly insignificant detail could be the key to unlocking the case and bringing long-awaited justice to Carlton's family.
To this day, no arrests have been made in connection with the murder of Carlton Holland Jr., and no suspects have been publicly identified. The investigation remains open, a lingering source of pain and frustration for his family, particularly his sister, Alexis Holland, who continues to advocate for her brother and plead for answers. The community holds onto the hope that one day, the individuals responsible for the death of this beloved son, brother, and friend will be held accountable for their actions, finally allowing his loved ones a measure of peace.
