Christopher Ravon Southerland was 16 when he was found shot to death in the backyard of a home on the 3300 block of Roanoke Avenue in Newport News, Virginia, on December 2, 2011. A student at Heritage High School who kept above-average grades, he was reported by detectives to have been running from his assailants when he was fatally shot. Investigators say they know the general location where the shooters stood and how many times he was shot, but the case has stalled for lack of forthcoming witnesses.

No arrests or publicly identified suspects have been announced. Police have told investigators that the same individuals may be connected to at least two other homicides. The Newport News Police Department’s Cold Case Unit continues to list the investigation as open while the family seeks answers.

If anyone knew Christopher, saw activity in the 3300 block of Roanoke Avenue on or around December 2, 2011, or has information about the people involved, please contact investigators.