RICHMOND, Va. — Tanya Chavis, 58, of Richmond, was killed in a fatal shooting on Dunston Avenue, while Corey Chavis, 48, of Richmond, was identified by police as the suspect and later died by suicide at Oakwood Cemetery. The tragic incident has left loved ones grieving as authorities continue working to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Richmond Police Department officers responded at approximately 12:01 p.m. to the 4000 block of Dunston Avenue after receiving a report of a death investigation. Upon arrival, officers discovered Tanya Chavis unconscious and suffering from what appeared to be a gunshot wound. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Detectives immediately began working to determine what led to the shooting. During the investigation, police identified Corey Chavis as a possible suspect and obtained warrants for his arrest.
The investigation later brought officers to Oakwood Cemetery, located in the 3100 block of Nine Mile Road. Police found an adult man and woman inside a vehicle at the cemetery, prompting the department’s SWAT Team to respond.
While officers were at the location, police said Corey Chavis shot himself. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The woman who had been inside the vehicle ran from the area but was quickly located and taken into police custody. Authorities said she was not injured.
Police have determined that the incident was domestic-related, although a specific motive has not been released. The Medical Examiner will determine the official cause and manner of death for both Tanya Chavis and Corey Chavis.
For Tanya’s family and friends, the loss is a heartbreaking and painful one. At 58, Tanya’s life was filled with people, experiences and memories that will remain with those who knew her. Her sudden death has left loved ones trying to cope with a loss that came without warning.
While the circumstances of her death are now part of an ongoing investigation, Tanya’s life was much more than the tragedy that ended it. She was a valued member of her community and someone whose presence mattered to the people around her.
As investigators continue gathering information, those who loved Tanya are left to remember the moments they shared with her and hold on to the memories that cannot be taken away.
Anyone with additional information about the homicide investigation is encouraged to contact Major Crimes Detective A. Darnell at (804) 646-3927 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through the P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app.
May Tanya’s loved ones find comfort and strength during this difficult time. May Tanya Chavis rest peacefully, and may her memory continue to live on in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved her.
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