In the heart of downtown Hampton, Virginia, a vibrant community was shaken by tragedy late Monday night when 29-year-old Xavier Sterling lost his life in a shooting outside Chance’s Restaurant and Lounge. The incident, which unfolded just before 11 p.m. on May 6, 2025, has left residents mourning and authorities searching for answers in a city grappling with the persistent challenge of gun violence.
Hampton Police Division officers were dispatched to the 500 block of Settlers Landing Road, a bustling area known for its restaurants and nightlife, following reports of gunfire. Upon arriving at the scene, they found Sterling, a local resident, critically wounded from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency responders from the Hampton Fire and Rescue Division worked swiftly to provide life-saving care, rushing him to a nearby hospital. Despite their efforts, Sterling succumbed to his injuries, marking another somber moment for a community that has faced similar losses in recent months.
Investigators have determined that the shooting stemmed from a dispute that began inside Chance’s Restaurant and Lounge, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The altercation, the details of which remain under investigation, spilled out into the street near the intersection of Settlers Landing Road and Old Hampton Lane. There, an unidentified suspect drew a firearm and shot Sterling before fleeing the scene. As of Tuesday evening, no arrests had been made, and police have not released a description of the suspect, leaving the community on edge and eager for justice.
The loss of Xavier Sterling has sent ripples through Hampton, a city of roughly 137,000 residents that has been working to curb violent crime. Chance’s Restaurant and Lounge, located in a historic and lively part of downtown, issued a heartfelt statement on social media Tuesday morning, announcing it would close for the evening to allow staff and patrons time to grieve. “Our hearts are heavy, and our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones affected by this unimaginable loss,” the statement read. “We are taking this time to reflect and support those impacted.” The establishment’s message underscored the profound impact of the incident on both the business and the broader community.
This shooting comes less than a month after another fatal incident in downtown Hampton, where 25-year-old DeAngelo Osborne was killed outside Karma Restaurant and Lounge, just blocks away. The proximity and timing of these events have heightened concerns among residents and local leaders about safety in the city’s nightlife districts. Hampton Mayor Jimmy Gray, who has prioritized addressing gun violence, has called for community cooperation in solving such cases, emphasizing the need for justice and prevention. Police are urging anyone with information about Monday’s shooting to come forward, offering options to contact the Hampton Police Division directly or submit anonymous tips through the Crime Line.
The investigation into Sterling’s death is ongoing, with detectives from the Hampton Police Major Crimes Unit working diligently to piece together the events leading up to the shooting. Authorities are canvassing the area for surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to identify the suspect and clarify the circumstances of the altercation. The lack of immediate arrests has frustrated some community members, who are calling for increased police presence and stronger measures to address gun violence in Hampton.
Sterling’s death adds to a troubling trend in the Hampton Roads region, where gun-related homicides have claimed numerous lives in recent years. While the region saw a decline in homicides in 2024 compared to previous years, incidents like this serve as a stark reminder of the work that remains. Community activists and local organizations have been vocal about the need for comprehensive solutions, including youth outreach programs, mental health support, and stricter enforcement of illegal firearms.
As Hampton mourns Xavier Sterling, his memory serves as a call to action for a city determined to heal and protect its residents. The investigation continues, with police hopeful that public assistance will lead to a breakthrough. For now, the community holds tight to memories of a life cut short and a shared resolve to seek justice and build a safer future.