Norfolk residents are mourning the loss of Matthew Gutterman, a 30‑year‑old who was killed during a shooting in Richmond on Sunday. Police identified Gutterman as the victim and recovered his body with multiple gunshot wounds.
Friends Recall His Joyful Spirit
CBS 6 reporter Kelsey Jones spoke with several of Gutterman’s close friends, who described him as a light‑hearted, honest, and caring individual. Evelyn Brown, a longtime friend, said, “He just had such a good smile and a love for the world around him.” She added that Gutterman “cared deeply for the people and the world” and was always eager to get his hands dirty in the garden.
Andrew Hunds, a family friend who shared Gutterman’s passion for cycling, recounted how they bonded over bike rides and how he even built a bicycle for Matthew. “He was the definition of a nice person,” Hunds said, noting that if you looked up “nice” in the dictionary, you would see a picture of Matthew.
Community Calls for Justice
Brown and other loved ones are now urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. “He deserves justice, and his family deserves closure,” Brown said.
Authorities have asked the public to contact Crime Stoppers at 804‑780‑1000 with any tips that could aid the investigation.
Support for Gutterman’s Family
A GoFundMe campaign has been created to help Gutterman’s family with funeral expenses and other needs during this difficult time. The fundraiser has quickly drawn support from community members who remember Matthew for his generosity, his love of gardening, cycling, music, and his adventurous spirit.
Local churches and civic groups have also expressed condolences, emphasizing the importance of standing together in the face of tragedy. “We pray for Matthew’s soul and for his family’s peace,” said a pastor from a nearby Norfolk congregation.
Broader Concerns About Violence
The incident adds to ongoing concerns about gun violence in Virginia. While this story focuses on the personal loss felt by Matthew’s friends and family, it also highlights the need for continued community vigilance and support for victims’ families.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and have not released details about a suspect. Authorities encourage anyone with relevant information to contact Crime Stoppers.
Original reporting: WTKR News 3 (Scripps) – local — read the source article.