29-Year-Old Xavier Sterling Fatally Shot Outside Chance’s Restaurant and Lounge in Hampton, Virginia
29-Year-Old Xavier Sterling Fatally Shot Outside Chance’s Restaurant and Lounge in Hampton, Virginia — Authorities Investigate Motive and Search for Suspect Following Altercation and Escalating Violence
HAMPTON, VA — A tragic incident unfolded late Monday night in downtown Hampton, Virginia, when 29-year-old Xavier Sterling was fatally shot outside of Chance’s Restaurant and Lounge following an altercation inside the establishment. The fatal shooting has prompted a homicide investigation by local authorities, who are urgently seeking answers and the identity of the assailant responsible.
Incident Overview:
At approximately 10:48 p.m. on May 6, 2025, Hampton Police Division officers responded to reports of a shooting at Chance’s Restaurant and Lounge, located on Settlers Landing Road in downtown Hampton. Upon their arrival, officers discovered Xavier Sterling, 29, suffering from severe gunshot wounds near the entrance of the establishment. Immediate medical assistance was provided by the Hampton Fire and Rescue Division, who quickly transported Sterling to a nearby hospital. Despite the best efforts of medical personnel, Sterling was later pronounced dead from his injuries.
Details of the Incident:
Preliminary reports suggest that the violence began as an altercation inside the restaurant. Authorities have stated that the situation escalated after the dispute moved outside the building, where a suspect, still unidentified, fired a weapon, fatally striking Sterling. The suspect fled the scene following the shooting and remains at large.
Detectives from the Hampton Police Division’s Major Crimes Unit have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. At this time, authorities have not released any information regarding a description of the suspect or a potential motive. The investigation is ongoing, with officials working to piece together the details leading up to the fatal shooting.
The Victim:
Xavier Sterling, the 29-year-old victim, was known to the community and was described by friends and family as a well-liked individual. Those close to Sterling have expressed their devastation over the loss of someone they described as caring and hardworking. Friends and family members have shared their condolences online, many remembering Sterling for his warmth and generous spirit.
The Suspect and Investigation:
As of now, there have been no confirmed arrests related to the shooting, and Hampton police have not yet released any details about the suspect involved. Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that might assist in their investigation. Community members who may have witnessed the altercation or shooting are encouraged to come forward, either through direct contact with the Hampton Police Division or by submitting anonymous tips through the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP.
Hampton Police have yet to clarify if the incident is believed to be random or if there was any prior relationship between the suspect and Sterling. The Major Crimes Unit is actively reviewing security footage from Chance’s Restaurant and Lounge, as well as speaking with witnesses who were present at the time of the shooting. They are also investigating whether any other individuals were involved in the altercation inside the restaurant before it escalated outside.
Community Response and Concerns:
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the Hampton community, with many residents expressing concern over the rising violence in the area. Hampton, a city known for its historical significance and close-knit communities, has seen an uptick in violent crime in recent years. Local leaders have called for more support for law enforcement and additional community safety measures to prevent future incidents like this from occurring.
Local advocacy groups have also raised concerns about the underlying causes of violence and have called for more resources dedicated to mental health support, conflict resolution, and youth engagement. Many community leaders believe that addressing the root causes of violence can help prevent future tragedies.
“This is a tragic loss, and it’s one that affects not just the victim and his family, but the entire community,” said one local activist. “We need to come together as a community to prevent this from happening again. People need to feel safe in their own neighborhoods, and that starts with supporting our law enforcement and offering solutions to help resolve conflicts without resorting to violence.”
The Investigation Moves Forward:
Detectives from the Hampton Police Division continue to actively investigate the shooting, working alongside forensic experts and community members to gather as much information as possible. While much of the investigation remains confidential, authorities have indicated that they are pursuing every lead in hopes of locating the suspect and uncovering the motive behind the shooting.
The Hampton Police Division has pledged to update the public as new information becomes available. They have urged anyone who may have been in the area around the time of the incident to come forward with any information that could aid in solving the case.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the Hampton Police Division as the investigation continues.
A Call for Justice:
The community continues to mourn the loss of Xavier Sterling, and his loved ones have called for justice to be served. Friends and family members have spoken out about the need for accountability and closure, hoping that the investigation will bring answers to the senseless violence that took the life of a young man with so much potential.
In the coming days, a vigil is expected to be held in Sterling’s honor, where friends, family, and community members will come together to pay their respects and remember a life taken too soon. Local leaders are also calling for continued support for the family of the victim during this difficult time.
The investigation remains active, and authorities are working around the clock to find the person responsible for this senseless tragedy.
For anyone with information regarding this case, please contact the Hampton Police Division at their non-emergency number or submit an anonymous tip through the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP.
The Role of the Community:
As Hampton police work diligently to solve this crime, the role of the community in helping to bring the suspect to justice cannot be overstated. Law enforcement agencies rely heavily on the eyes and ears of residents to provide valuable tips and evidence that can lead to an arrest. In cases like this, where the suspect remains unidentified and the motive is unclear, the smallest piece of information can make all the difference.
Community leaders have echoed this sentiment, encouraging Hampton residents to stay engaged and report any information that may assist investigators. As the investigation continues, the hope is that the combined efforts of law enforcement and the public will bring clarity to the events of that tragic night.
The search for the suspect is ongoing, and authorities continue to work towards bringing closure to the victim’s family.
