Shockoe Bottom Business Owners Demand Action After Deadly Mass Shooting
RICHMOND, VA — Frustration and fear are mounting among business owners in Richmond’s historic Shockoe Bottom neighborhood following a violent mass shooting that erupted in the early morning hours of Saturday, February 21, 2026.
The incident, which took place near 18th and Main Streets around 2:47 a.m., left two people dead—identified as 23-year-old Genesis Jones and 42-year-old Dominic Antoine Jackson—and seven others wounded.
Business Owners "At a Breaking Point" Local entrepreneurs met with City Council President Cynthia Newbille this week to voice their growing concerns over the safety of the district. Many expressed that the violence is no longer just an "after-hours" issue but a threat to the economic viability of the entire neighborhood.
The "Disaster" Narrative: Business owners highlighted the prevalence of guns on the streets. Some cited previous police internal communications describing the area as an "absolute disaster" due to the volume of firearms carried by people hanging out after bars close.
Call for Solutions: Owners are pushing for more than just a temporary police surge. Proposed ideas include designated "entertainment districts" with restricted firearm access, increased permanent lighting, and more robust surveillance.
The Impact: "This is not how people want to live, and it’s not how we can run our businesses," said one local restaurant owner. "We are seeing people stay away from the Bottom because they don't feel safe."
City and Police Response Richmond Police Chief Rick Edwards clarified that the shooting did not originate inside a club, as all bars were closed at the time. Instead, it stemmed from a fight between two groups of people congregating on the street.
Police Surge: City officials have promised an "all of the above" approach, including additional surveillance cameras and a surge of patrol officers to be in place by this coming weekend.
Legislative Hurdles: Mayor Danny Avula and Chief Edwards emphasized that the "sheer amount of guns" on the street is the primary hurdle. The city is currently exploring the legal feasibility of making Shockoe Bottom a "gun-free zone" or an official entertainment district.
Community Mourning As investigators continue to review surveillance footage and process over 50 recovered shell casings, the community is focused on the victims. Family members describe Genesis Jones and Dominic Jackson as innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire of a senseless dispute.
How You Can Help Richmond Police are pleading with anyone who has cell phone video of the fight or the shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000.