Zion Terry, 18, Killed in Shooting on 5th Avenue in Richmond Death Obituary: Unexpected Departure
The city of Richmond is in deep mourning following a tragic domestic-related shooting that claimed the life of 18-year-old Zion Terry and left two others injured in a devastating incident that unfolded on Tuesday morning, April 21, 2026.
According to the Richmond Police Department, officers were dispatched around 9:50 a.m. to a residence in the 3100 block of 5th Avenue after receiving urgent reports of a shooting inside a home. When they arrived, they found a chaotic and heartbreaking scene. Zion Terry had sustained fatal gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene despite immediate emergency response efforts.
Two additional victims were also discovered inside the residence. A 38-year-old woman was transported to a nearby hospital, where she is expected to recover from her injuries. A 14-year-old girl, however, remains in critical condition, fighting for her life in intensive care as medical teams work tirelessly to stabilize her. The presence of both an adult woman and a child among the victims has deepened the emotional impact of the tragedy on the community.
Authorities have described the incident as domestic-related, indicating that the individuals involved were known to one another. While the exact relationships have not been publicly clarified, investigators believe the violence stemmed from a personal conflict within the home.
Following the shooting, law enforcement launched a large-scale, coordinated search effort involving multiple agencies, including assistance from surrounding jurisdictions. The suspect, identified as 41-year-old Levy Nelson of Richmond, was later apprehended in Henrico County after an intensive manhunt supported by tips from the public and investigative tracking tools. During his attempted flight, Nelson reportedly collided with several vehicles, including police units, resulting in injuries to a responding officer. That officer is expected to survive.
Nelson now faces serious charges, including malicious wounding and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, with additional charges expected as the investigation continues. Prosecutors are expected to review evidence in the coming days as they determine the full scope of criminal responsibility.
For the Richmond community, the loss of Zion Terry has been especially painful. At just 18 years old, he was stepping into adulthood with his future still ahead of him. Loved ones remember him as a young man whose life held promise and meaning, now cut tragically short.
Meanwhile, the surviving victims face uncertain recoveries—one physical, the other both physical and emotional. The 14-year-old girl’s critical condition has left family and community members anxiously hoping for a miracle.
As investigators continue working to understand what led to the violence, the community is left to grieve and reflect. In the midst of shock and heartbreak, Richmond is holding tightly to memories of Zion Terry, a young life lost too soon, and offering support to those still fighting to heal.