The heartbreaking deaths of Rai’Shon Eugene Delarge, 30, and Philip Avery Wilson, 34, have left their families, friends, coworkers, and the Emporia community mourning an unimaginable loss. The two men, both employed by a contractor working with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), were fatally shot while on the job at a VDOT equipment staging area in Chesterfield County on the morning of July 24, 2026. Their lives were taken far too soon in a tragedy that has shocked communities across Virginia.
According to Virginia State Police, officers responded to reports of a shooting shortly after 9:27 a.m. near the intersection of Route 1 and northbound Route 288. Rai’Shon Delarge was pronounced dead at the scene after suffering fatal gunshot wounds. Philip Wilson was transported to a nearby hospital with critical injuries, where he later succumbed despite the determined efforts of medical personnel.
Investigators believe the shooting was domestic-related, though no suspect has been taken into custody, and the investigation remains active. Detectives continue gathering evidence and urging anyone with information to come forward as they work to uncover exactly what happened.
While the investigation continues, the focus of many remains on remembering the two men whose lives touched so many. Rai’Shon Delarge and Philip Wilson were more than dedicated workers—they were beloved sons, family members, friends, and valued colleagues whose kindness, hard work, and presence made a lasting impact on those around them.
May their memories be a source of comfort to all who knew and loved them. As their families face an unimaginable journey of grief, countless hearts stand beside them in prayer, support, and remembrance. Though their lives ended far too soon, Rai’Shon Delarge and Philip Wilson will never be forgotten. May they both rest in eternal peace, and may justice and answers bring comfort to those left behind.
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