Brian Fullerton’s Death, Tragic Incident at Virginia Fast-Food Restaurant After 17-Year-Old Worker Shot Dead; Suspect Elijah James-Sanders Identified Weeks Later
Reports from Virginia news outlets unveiled a tragic incident involving the death of 17-year-old Brian Fullerton, just days prior to his 18th birthday, while he was beginning work at a fast-food establishment. The teen, excitedly anticipating his upcoming birthday and receiving his first paycheck at Rally’s, had his aspirations tragically cut short when a violent altercation erupted at his workplace in Hampton on November 22, the day before Thanksgiving, resulting in his fatal shooting and subsequent demise at a hospital.
Identification of the Suspect and Police Alert
Weeks following the shooting, the Hampton Police Division disclosed that a suspect, 25-year-old Elijah James-Sanders, had been identified, characterized as “armed and dangerous” by authorities. Despite the release of this information on December 13, details regarding legal representation for James-Sanders were not shared by the police.
Rally’s, approached for comment on December 14, had yet to respond to inquiries made by McClatchy News regarding the distressing incident.
The Incident and Urgent Plea to the Community
The shooting occurred at the Rally’s restaurant in Hampton, near Norfolk, with the alleged shooter reportedly fleeing the scene, prompting a plea for assistance from both the authorities and the grieving family. Brian’s mother, identified as Veronica Fullerton Fagan by WAVY, appealed to the public for support in finding her son’s killer, emphasizing Brian’s character and the heartache caused by his untimely death.
Remembering Brian Fullerton
Brian, adopted and recently reunited with his biological mother, is remembered as an outgoing high school senior, described as talkative and hardworking. Engaged in various activities at Hampton High School and within his community, Brian was acknowledged for his resilience and positive demeanor, leaving a lasting impact on those who knew him.
Ongoing Investigation and Police’s Call for Information
The Hampton Police Division refrained from providing further details about the shooting to McClatchy News as of December 13, with James-Sanders wanted in connection with the case. The suspect, a resident of Newport News, reportedly faces multiple charges, including second-degree murder, burglary, firearm-related offenses, and mask-wearing in public.
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact them at 757–727–6111, seeking public assistance in this distressing case.