United Communities Against Crime, a local nonprofit organization run by Charles Willis, held a prayer vigil Thursday, March 16, 2023, for Tyrek Brandon, 21, who was murdered at the corner of Hull and 16th streets on Richmond’s South Side on March 6, 2023.

Family, friends, and members of the Richmond Police Department, including Interim Police Chief Rick Edwards and homicide detectives, attended the vigil where several people said the senseless killings must stop. Shaquan Holmes, 33, Mr. Brandon’s older brother, painfully speaks about the senseless loss of his younger brother. He attempted to hold back tears while holding the hand of their grandmother, Shirlene Holmes.

Mr. Brandon was described as a beloved son, brother, neighbor, and friend. Through their tears, mourners watched as balloons were released in his memory.

Richmond Police is asking for help. If there is anyone with information about Mr. Brandon’s murder, contact Major Crimes Detective C. Tovar at (804) 467-4433, or call Crime Stoppers at (804)780-1000.

Seven and counting

Public vigils that have taken place in 2023

Jan. 3 - Hundreds gather in Hopewell County to remember the life of P’Aris Mi-Unique Angel Moore, after she was fatally shot days before her 9th birthday the previous week.

Jan. 30 - Community members and elected officials host a vigil for Tyre Nichols, age 29, at Abner Clay Park weeks after he died from injuries sustained during a beating by police officers in Memphis.

Feb. 5 - Jonathan Starks, age 24, is memorialized in Chesterfield County after being found dead in the Bend 804 apartments the morning of Thursday, Feb. 2.

Feb. 8 - A vigil in remembrance of Tyrese Robinson, age 30, is held weeks after he was shot and killed in Gilpin Court on Friday, Jan. 27.

Feb. 25 - Summer Fuller, 31, allegedly shot and killed by her boyfriend on Monday, Feb. 13 - is the focus of a vigil held by friends and family outside the Glam Boutique Salon where she worked in Richmond.

March 4 - Dozens gather for a vigil at Pine Camp Cultural Arts and Community Center in honor of 20-year-old Antajuan Hawkins, who was found dead near the Center two days after being reported missing Thursday, Feb. 23.

March 16 - Tyrek Brandon, age 21, is mourned by family and friends in Blackwell. near where he was fatally shot on Monday, March 6.