HENRICO COUNTY, Virginia — Henrico County police are investigating a deadly shooting that claimed the life of Lavon Donelle Woodson late Friday night, May 22, 2026, near a local restaurant and bar along Brook Road. Authorities confirmed that officers responded to reports of gunfire shortly after 11:00 p.m. in the 7500 block of Brook Road, near Mell J’s Bar & Grill and Wilkinson Road.
According to investigators, responding officers and nearby citizens attempted to render aid alongside Henrico Fire & EMS personnel after arriving at the scene. Despite emergency efforts, Lavon Donelle Woodson, 44, of Henrico County, was pronounced dead at the location. Police later officially identified him as the victim involved in the fatal shooting.
The shooting scene remained active into the overnight hours as detectives secured evidence, interviewed witnesses, and canvassed the surrounding Brook Road corridor for surveillance footage and additional information. Law enforcement vehicles and crime scene tape surrounded portions of the area while homicide investigators continued processing the scene early Saturday morning, May 23, 2026.
Authorities have not yet publicly released details regarding a suspect, possible motive, or the sequence of events that led to the deadly shooting. Detectives are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or possesses information related to the case to contact Henrico Police Detective Seay or Metro Richmond Crime Stoppers.
The homicide has sparked concern among residents and members of the Henrico community, particularly given the shooting’s proximity to a local nightlife and dining area frequently visited during weekend evening hours. Community members expressed sadness and frustration online as news of Woodson’s death spread across Richmond-area social media platforms overnight.
Friends and acquaintances who knew Lavon Donelle Woodson have since begun sharing condolences and tribute messages remembering him as someone known within the local community. Several social media posts described shock over the sudden violence and offered prayers to his family and loved ones during the difficult aftermath of the tragedy.
As of Saturday afternoon, May 23, 2026, Henrico County Police confirmed the investigation remains active and ongoing. Detectives continue reviewing witness accounts, physical evidence, and nearby surveillance footage as authorities work to determine exactly what happened during the fatal encounter near Brook Road.
