Suffolk, Virginia – The community is in mourning following the tragic deaths of William Eugene Goodman Jr., 37, and Demonte Lamont Tillery, 30, after a late-night shooting on East Washington Street in Suffolk. The incident, which occurred around 11:25 p.m. on September 12, 2024, also left three others injured.
Suffolk Police responded to reports of gunfire in the 800 block of East Washington Street. When officers arrived, they found five individuals with gunshot wounds. Despite swift medical assistance, William Goodman Jr. died at the scene, while Demonte Tillery succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a local hospital. Three others, including two men and a woman, sustained serious injuries but are expected to survive.
This tragic event has left the Suffolk community shaken, as it grapples with the growing concern of gun violence in the area. Suffolk Police Chief Alfred Buie expressed his condolences in a press release, stating, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families during this difficult time." Chief Buie reassured the public that the police department is actively investigating the incident and vowed to bring those responsible to justice.
Facebook has been flooded with messages of grief and support for the families of the victims. Letrice Felton shared, "This one really hit a lot of hearts here in Suffolk, Virginia. My prayers go out to Mr. William Goodman Jr., his children, and his family." Others echoed similar sentiments, with William Drakeford posting, "May God grant his family the strength to cope with such a great loss."
Brittany Skinner, who shared a deep connection with William Goodman Jr., wrote a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on his enduring love for his children. She noted, "William may be gone, but the legacy he leaves behind is more than memories. It’s in the way he loved his children, in the way he never gave up, and in the way he made sure they knew they were his everything."
As the investigation continues, the Suffolk Police Department has yet to identify any suspects or the motivation behind the shooting. Officers are reviewing CCTV footage from nearby businesses and interviewing witnesses to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy.
The deaths of William Goodman Jr. and Demonte Tillery have left a profound impact on the community, with residents calling for stronger gun laws and increased police presence to prevent further violence.