Richmond Vape Shop Employee Abidine Boye Fatally Shot on City’s North Side

RICHMOND, Virginia — The North Side community of Richmond is mourning the death of 30-year-old Abidine Boye, a local resident and store clerk who was fatally shot while working at a commercial establishment early Saturday morning, September 26, 2026.

At approximately 5:29 a.m., Richmond Police Department officers responded to a distress call at a commercial business located in the 4200 block of North Avenue near Moss Side after a passerby reported suspicious activity inside the store. Upon arrival, responding officers discovered Boye, an employee on duty inside the vape shop, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Emergency medical personnel provided immediate assessment, but Boye sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Official Status and Homicide Investigation

Detectives from the Richmond Police Department Major Crimes Division have opened an active homicide investigation into the shooting.

Homicide detectives and crime scene investigators processed the scene for physical evidence, ballistic tracking, and surveillance footage. The Richmond Police Department continues to urge anyone with information regarding the shooting or potential suspects to contact the Major Crimes Division or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers. Official information regarding funeral service locations, public visitation, or memorial funds will be shared as arrangements are finalized by his family.

Community Tributes and Personal Remembrances

News of Abidine Boye's violent death has drawn strong condolences and grief from local patrons, coworkers, and North Side community members.

Regular customers and acquaintances remembered Boye as a kind, hardworking, and welcoming individual who was known for treating everyone with warmth and respect. Sincere condolences continue to be extended to his family, friends, and colleagues during this period of grief.