CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — The University of Virginia community paused to remember the lives of three football players tragically killed in a shooting three years ago. Devin Chandler, Lavel Davis Jr., and D’Sean Perry lost their lives while on a charter bus returning from a field trip to Washington, D.C., in November 2022.
In that same incident, fellow student Mike Hollins and Marlee Morgan were injured. Hollins has since made a full recovery and returned to the football field in 2023, while Morgan continues her journey of healing. The man responsible for their deaths, Christopher Jones Jr., has faced serious criminal charges and entered a guilty plea in the fall of 2024.
Jones admitted guilt to three counts of first-degree murder, along with two counts of aggravated malicious wounding and five counts related to firearm use during the crime. His sentencing is scheduled for Monday, marking a pivotal moment for the families and the university.
The University of Virginia organized several events throughout the day to honor Chandler, Davis, and Perry. The first event took place at 1:55 p.m., allowing students and faculty to step outside to observe a moment of silence while the University’s Chapel Bells tolled in memory of the victims. The bells played the first verse of “Amazing Grace,” followed by three chimes to represent each young man lost.
Following the moment of silence, community members participated in a memorial walk to a dedicated tree planted in honor of the three players on the Betsy and John Casteen Arts Grounds in September 2023. Attendees were also encouraged to sign a pledge dedicating themselves to the fight against gun violence, an initiative led by the Public Engagement in Governance Looking, Listening, and Learning Laboratory.
That evening from 6 to 8 p.m., the Class of 2026, consisting of students who were first-years when the tragedy occurred, invited the broader community to share memories and personal tributes. A remembrance banner was available for community members, culminating in a candlelight vigil to honor those lost.
These events aimed to foster remembrance and healing in the university community, as well as to promote ongoing discussions about gun violence and its impact. In reflecting on this tragedy, university officials and community members expressed a commitment to supporting one another and finding ways to honor the memory of Chandler, Davis, and Perry in meaningful and constructive ways.
In a time of sorrow, the University stands united, emphasizing resilience and hope three years after the devastating loss.