Former Hampton Councilman Shoots Mother, Dies by Suicide

Two separate incidents of murder-suicide involving sons shooting their elderly mothers before taking their own lives occurred recently, one in Durban, South Africa, and one in Hampton, Virginia. In Durban, an 80-year-old woman was fatally shot by her son, who then turned the gun on himself; this follows a similar violent incident just two days earlier in the same region. In Hampton, Virginia, the man involved was identified as Randy Gilliland, a former city councilman and vice mayor, who shot his mother before taking his own life. Police confirmed no ongoing threat to the community in Hampton and emphasized that the case is under investigation by the Major Crimes Unit. Local officials and organizations recognized Gilliland's community contributions, while also urging mental health support and awareness. Both cases highlight the tragic outcomes of familial violence and the importance of mental health resources.