Hopewell Police have identified both the victim and the suspect in a fatal shooting that occurred on June 4 at the Piper Square Apartments. The incident, which unfolded around 4:15 p.m. in the 1500 block of Piper Square Drive, resulted in the deaths of a man and his dog. It marks the city’s fourth homicide of 2024.
The victim has been confirmed as Endraqus Thomal Range, a resident of Hopewell. According to police, Range and his dog were both fatally shot at the scene. Responding officers quickly took 21-year-old Dayon Elijah Williams into custody. Williams, also from Hopewell, was apprehended without incident and is currently being held without bond at Riverside Regional Jail in Prince George County.
Williams now faces several serious charges, including second-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and animal cruelty. While police have confirmed his arrest and the charges, they have not yet disclosed a motive. It has been reported that neither Range nor Williams lived at Piper Square Apartments, which is operated by the Hopewell Redevelopment & Housing Authority.
Community reaction has been swift, with local leaders expressing concern over both the violence and its broader impact. Michael Moore, pastor of Beacon Hill Church in downtown Hopewell, took to Facebook to address the tragedy. Moore identified Williams as homeless and pointed out that many children from Harry E. James Elementary School were returning home from school during the shooting. Some may have heard or witnessed the traumatic event.
Moore emphasized that the tragedy highlights the need for stronger outreach efforts, especially to Hopewell’s homeless and underserved populations. “We cannot conceal and alter Hopewell,” Moore wrote. “We must confront the darkness with the gospel of Jesus Christ.” His message resonated with many in the community, who are grappling with the emotional aftermath of the violence.
The investigation remains ongoing. Hopewell Police are urging anyone with information about the case to contact Detective Nathanael Willsey at (804) 541-2284. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Solvers at (804) 541-2202 or through the P3Tips mobile app. Officials hope community involvement will help provide answers and ensure justice is served for Endraqus Range.
