Two killed, seven injured in early-morning shooting in Richmond’s Shockoe Bottom

A violent early-morning shooting in the historic Shockoe Bottom district of Richmond left two people dead and seven others injured on Saturday, authorities have confirmed.

According to the Richmond Police Department, the incident occurred at about 2:45 a.m. along North 18th Street in the bustling Shockoe Bottom area, known for its restaurants, bars and vibrant nightlife.

Police officers on routine patrol reportedly observed a large crowd engaged in what appeared to be confrontations before gunfire erupted.

In a statement, Police Chief Rick Edwards said an officer responded almost immediately and discovered an adult woman suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Additional officers who arrived shortly after found an adult man unresponsive with apparent gunshot wounds. He was also pronounced dead on site.

Authorities confirmed that a total of nine adults were shot during the incident. The victims included one male and one female who died, one male who sustained life-threatening injuries, and three males and three females who suffered non-life-threatening wounds. Emergency services transported four victims to area hospitals, while three others sought medical treatment on their own.

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Investigators believe the shooting stemmed from a fight that escalated quickly, with multiple individuals becoming involved before gunfire broke out in the street.

Chief Edwards described the scene as “frustrating,” noting that the violence followed what had been a relatively quiet night before the sudden outbreak of chaos.

Police reported recovering more than 50 shell casings from the area, indicating heavy gunfire. Preliminary findings suggest that at least two shooters may have been involved.

Later updates identified the deceased victims as 23-year-old Genesis Jones of Petersburg and 42-year-old Dominic Jackson of Henrico County

One account suggested the gathering may have been linked to a birthday celebration, with reports indicating that crossfire may have struck at least one innocent bystander.

As of the latest update, no arrests have been announced, and authorities have not released suspect descriptions. The investigation remains ongoing as detectives continue to review evidence and interview witnesses.