In the predawn hours of Friday, May 10, 2025, the quiet of Southeast Roanoke was shattered by gunfire, leaving a young man dead and a community grappling with grief. Hunter Orlando, just 27 years old, was found lifeless on a sidewalk in the 1300 block of Jamison Avenue SE, his life cut short by apparent gunshot wounds. The Roanoke Police Department responded swiftly to the 4:09 a.m. call, but despite their efforts, Orlando was pronounced dead at the scene, marking another tragic loss to gun violence in the city. The weight of this moment—a life extinguished in an instant—has left neighbors and loved ones searching for answers, while police now hunt for the man they believe is responsible.
As officers secured the scene on Jamison Avenue, a second discovery unfolded nearby at Fallon Park. Another man, whose identity has not been released, was found with gunshot wounds. Unlike Orlando, his injuries were deemed non-life-threatening, and he was promptly transported for medical care. Investigators quickly determined that this second victim was likely caught in the same violent incident that claimed Orlando’s life. The connection between the two victims, if any, remains unclear, but the police are working diligently to piece together the events that led to this early-morning tragedy.
The Roanoke Police Department has identified 38-year-old Thomas Delp as the primary suspect in the shooting. Delp, now wanted on a charge of second-degree murder, is the focus of an active manhunt. Authorities have released few details about what led to the shooting or Delp’s potential motive, but they are urging the public to come forward with any information that could lead to his apprehension. The police have provided a contact number, (540) 344-8500, for anyone with tips about Delp’s whereabouts or details related to the case. The urgency of their appeal underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for community cooperation to bring justice for Hunter Orlando and closure for those affected.
This shooting adds to a troubling pattern of violence in Roanoke, a city that has seen its share of gun-related incidents in recent years. While the police have not disclosed whether this incident was targeted or random, the loss of life has reignited conversations about public safety and the challenges of curbing violent crime. Roanoke Mayor Joe Cobb has previously emphasized safety as a top priority, and local leaders are likely to face renewed calls for action in the wake of this tragedy. The fact that the shooting occurred in a residential area, near homes and families, only amplifies the community’s sense of unease.
As the investigation continues, the Roanoke Police Department is combing through evidence, interviewing witnesses, and following leads to track down Delp. Detectives are also working to understand the circumstances that led to the confrontation on Jamison Avenue, including any prior connections between the suspect and the victims. For now, the second victim’s condition remains stable, offering a small glimmer of hope amid the sorrow. The police have assured the public that they are committed to resolving the case and preventing further violence, but the path forward will require both investigative diligence and community support.
For the family and friends of Hunter Orlando, the pain of his loss is immeasurable. A young man with dreams and aspirations, he now becomes a name in the city’s ongoing struggle with gun violence. As Roanoke mourns, the call for information about Thomas Delp grows louder, with the hope that justice will soon prevail. The investigation remains fluid, and authorities are encouraging anyone with even the smallest detail to step forward, reminding the community that collective action can make a difference in the face of such heartbreak.