In loving memory: Remembering Edguin Zelaya-Mendez

In loving memory: Remembering Edguin Zelaya-Mendez 

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 devastating incident has left an entire community heartbroken, as loved ones struggle to come to terms with the sudden and senseless loss of a young man whose life had only just begun.

According to the Richmond Police Department, officers were called to the area shortly after 1:00 a.m. on reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, they discovered Zelaya-Mendez suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts from first responders and emergency medical teams, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Detectives immediately began canvassing the area for witnesses and evidence, but as of now, no arrests have been announced and the investigation remains ongoing.

Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that even the smallest tip could help lead to answers. The scene near West Bacon and Hickory Streets, typically a quiet residential area, became one of heartbreak and disbelief as friends and neighbors gathered, lighting candles and offering prayers for a young man whose future was stolen in an instant.

Those who knew Edguin Zelaya-Mendez describe him as kind-hearted, hardworking, and full of potential. Friends say he had a gentle spirit and a big heart, always willing to lend a helping hand or share a laugh. He was known for his strong sense of family and deep loyalty to those close to him. Many who grew up with him say he had dreams of building a better life, pursuing his goals, and making his family proud.

“Edguin was one of the good ones,” said a friend who grew up with him in the neighborhood. “He didn’t deserve this. He had dreams, he had plans — and now he’s gone. It just hurts.”

For his family, the loss is immeasurable. They are now left to plan a funeral instead of celebrating milestones like graduation and adulthood. Loved ones are raising funds to support funeral expenses and to honor Edguin’s memory, describing him as a bright light in their lives whose laughter and warmth will never be forgotten.

Community leaders and anti-violence advocates have also spoken out in the wake of the tragedy, calling once again for unity and urgent action to stop the cycle of violence that continues to claim young lives in Richmond. “We cannot keep losing our children,” one local organizer said during a vigil. “We owe it to Edguin and every other young person taken too soon to make sure their deaths lead to change.”

A candlelight vigil is being planned at the intersection of West Bacon and Hickory Streets, where family, friends, and neighbors will gather to remember Edguin’s life, share memories, and stand together in grief and hope. The event will serve not only as a time to mourn but also as a call for peace and justice.

The Richmond Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit continues to investigate and is asking anyone with information to contact Detective J. Fultz at (804) 646-3246, or to provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000 or via the P3 Tips app.

As the Richmond community mourns, they remember Edguin Zelaya-Mendez not as a statistic or headline, but as a son, friend, and young man with dreams, laughter, and love in his heart. His untimely passing is a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of standing together to build a safer, more compassionate community.

May his memory live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and may his family find comfort and strength in the outpouring of love surrounding them during this time of unimaginable sorrow.