Bryan Jamal Brooks, a 33-year-old Black man from Portsmouth, Virginia, was fatally shot on Garrett Street in the early morning hours of December 21, 2024. Family describe him as generous and multi-talented, skilled at car maintenance and home remodeling from lessons with his grandfather, and say he was a goofy, sweet, caring presence who leaves behind two daughters, his mother and step-father, and close-knit grandparents.

The family’s account of the scene includes an allegation that the 16-year-old son of Bryan’s wife was the shooter, but authorities have not publicly confirmed any arrests or identified suspects. Court records from 2022 and 2023 show Bryan’s wife previously sought emergency protective orders against him after an alleged attempted break-in and an incident involving her phone being thrown into the Elizabeth River. Family members say they were unaware of any ongoing hostility among Bryan, his wife, and her children.

Few investigative details or a clear motive have been released, and the family says detectives have provided little information. If anyone knew Bryan, his movements that night, or has information about what happened on Garrett Street, please come forward with what can help the investigation.