John Edward Riggins II, 22, was shot and killed in Durham, North Carolina, on April 14, 2025. Officers responded shortly before 9 p.m. to reports of gunfire near Courtland Drive and Brighton Road in the Hope Valley neighborhood. Responding officers found Riggins inside a vehicle with multiple gunshot wounds; Emergency Medical Services pronounced him dead at the scene.

Riggins lived on Courtland Drive and was described by his mother, Gemina Hayes, as kind, loyal and involved in music production. A Hillside High School graduate, he spent much of his time working in his studio and was regarded as a dependable friend. The family and community have set up a memorial at the shooting site and started a fundraiser to offer a reward for information leading to a conviction.

Durham police have not identified suspects or announced arrests and continue to investigate. If anyone knew John, witnessed the shooting near Courtland Drive and Brighton Road, or has information that could help the case, please get in touch with investigators.