RICHMOND, VA — It is with heavy hearts that family, friends, and community members mourn the tragic loss of 18-year-old Edguin Zelaya-Mendez, whose life was cut short in a shooting early Saturday morning near West Bacon and Hickory Streets in Richmond.
The Richmond Police Department confirmed that Edguin, a native of Alexandria, Virginia, was the victim of the fatal incident that occurred around 3:24 a.m. on November 1, 2025. Officers responding to a noise complaint at an apartment complex heard sudden gunfire and rushed to the scene, where they discovered Edguin unresponsive beside a parked vehicle. Despite officers’ immediate aid, he was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
A Bright Young Life Remembered
At only 18 years old, Edguin was known for his kindness, determination, and love for life. Friends describe him as a “gentle soul with a contagious smile” — someone who made those around him laugh, listened without judgment, and carried big dreams for his future.
He was passionate about his family and loved spending time with friends, often talking about his ambitions and the goals he wanted to achieve. Those who knew him say he had the drive to turn his dreams into reality and the heart to lift others along the way.
“Edguin had such a light in him,” said one family friend. “He was always smiling, always trying to make people feel better. He didn’t deserve this.”
A Community United in Grief
The loss of Edguin Zelaya-Mendez has sent waves of grief across both Richmond and Alexandria, uniting two communities in mourning and reflection. Vigils and prayer gatherings are already being planned, as friends and neighbors come together to honor his memory and support his grieving family.
Candles, flowers, and messages of love have begun appearing near the parking lot where the tragedy occurred — a space transformed into a small but powerful memorial for a young man gone far too soon.
On social media, tributes continue to pour in. Friends have shared photos, memories, and heartfelt messages, using the hashtag #JusticeForEdguin to spread awareness and call for accountability.
Justice for Edguin
The Richmond Police Department’s Major Crimes Division continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Edguin’s death. Detectives are reviewing video footage, processing evidence, and interviewing witnesses to determine what led to the deadly gunfire.
Police are urging anyone with information — no matter how small — to come forward. Tips can be shared directly with Detective K. Hyde at (804) 646-3613, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000 or the P3 Tips app.
Every piece of information could help detectives bring justice for Edguin and closure for his family.
A Call for Peace
Edguin’s death is another painful reminder of the toll that gun violence continues to take on young lives across Virginia. Community leaders, youth advocates, and families are calling for unity, compassion, and change.
“We’ve lost too many bright souls,” one Richmond resident said. “Edguin deserved a chance to live his dreams. We owe it to him — and to every young person taken too soon — to make sure this doesn’t keep happening.”
🕊️ Forever Remembered
As family and friends prepare to say their final goodbyes, they hold tightly to the memories of Edguin’s laughter, his kindness, and the joy he brought into their lives. His story now stands as both a tribute and a call to action — to love harder, live with purpose, and work together for peace in our communities.
Rest in peace, Edguin Zelaya-Mendez (2007–2025).
Your light will never be forgotten.
