In the early hours of December 26, 2023, gunfire was reported on the 1400 block of St. Michaels Way in Newport News, Virginia. Officers who arrived at 1:28 a.m. found a man outside with at least one life-threatening gunshot wound. The victim was identified as 38-year-old Demario Jevon Mapp of Hampton. He was taken to a local hospital and later died of his injuries.

Demario was remembered as a funny, loving man with a memorable smile. He attended Statesboro High School and Ogeechee Technical College, trained in barbering at Tomorrow’s Image Barbering School in Newport News, and worked for Southern Plumbing & Heating Supply. He was the father of two children, Demarion and Amari Mapp.

Newport News Police detectives canvassed the area and the forensics team processed the scene. At the time of the initial reports there was no public information about a suspect and the investigation remained active. If anyone knew Demario or has information about what happened that night, please come forward to assist the investigation.