On the afternoon of Saturday, May 17, 2025, 14-year-old eighth grader Cason Chilton of Lancaster, Virginia, died after an accidental, self-inflicted shooting. The incident happened about 5:38 p.m. in the 400 block of Russell Lane while Cason was reportedly unloading his 4-wheeler on the last day of turkey season. Deputies and Lancaster County Emergency Services rendered aid; he was airlifted toward VCU Children’s Hospital but was pronounced dead after the helicopter was diverted to Bon Secours Rappahannock General Hospital in Kilmarnock.

Cason attended Aylett Country Day School and was among the top three in his graduating class. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and riding his dirt bike, and is remembered by the community as warm-hearted and energetic. Investigators confirmed the shooting was accidental and self-inflicted, and there was no indication of foul play; no arrests or suspects were named.

If anyone knew Cason or was in the Russell Lane area that afternoon and can add details about what happened, please share information that might help the community understand this tragedy.