CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. -- Jerry Colyer was shot and killed while working behind the desk of the job that helped him provide for his wife and 19-month old daughter. His family and friends gathered for a vigil just a few feet from where Jerry died.
Jerry Vadal Colyer, 43, of Haden Avenue in Richmond, was found dead with an apparent gunshot wound at the Econo Lodge on Indian Hill Road the night of September 29th, detectives said.
“We are here to send a message, a quiet message, but a powerful one,” said Community Activist Charles Willis.
Colyer was killed after a gunman entered the business, displayed a handgun, and demanded money, police said.
He got the money, but then shot Colyer even though motel manager Jay Patel said surveillance video inside the office showed Colyer never put up a fight.
Colyer’s wife, daughter, mother, father, sisters, brothers and friends filled the motel’s conference room to prevent his story from fading from the news.
“Not only did we share a room growing up, but we shared a love of family and a love of sports,” said Jerry’s brother, Stephen.
Colyer was a Virginia Tech graduate, and wanted to become a hotel manager to provide for his young family.
“I never considered him my employee, he was my friend,” said Patel.
Richmond’s 8th District Councilmember Reva Trammel, who lived across the street from the young family, felt compelled to attend the vigil.
“What breaks my heart is that he was doing the right thing,” said Trammell. “He was working and working to take care of his family.”
Colyer’s killer has yet to be caught, and his family is afraid the suspect will get off scot free.
“We want this person caught,” said Willis. “The family wants this person caught.”
The shooter was described as a male, wearing a red long sleeve hooded sweatshirt, red brimmed hat, jeans, and a dark-colored belt.
The vigil ended with the group releasing balloons into the air chanting “we love you Jerry.”
Colyer was laid to rest in Brunswick County on Saturday.
Anyone with information should contact the Chesterfield County Police Department at 804-748-1251 or Crime Solvers at 804-748-0660.
