The death of a rising senior at William & Mary earlier this month in Henrico County is being investigated as homicide, the college said Friday.
Zhykierra Guy, 22, was pronounced dead at the scene after being shot just before 2 a.m. on Aug. 5. According to Henrico Police, she was found in the passenger seat of a vehicle that had been struck by gunfire.
Guy, who planned to graduate in May 2023 with a government major and a business minor, was “dedicated to giving all her love to her family and friends,” said her mom, Lakisha Hamlett, in an email sent out to the school community by William & Mary Vice President for Student Affairs Ginger Ambler.
“Her energy and soul touched many students (at William & Mary) and we are grateful as parents for the time she was given to us on earth,” Hamlett continued.
As an undergraduate, Guy launched her own business, Lavish Hair Zesty Girls, an online retailer that supplies hair extensions, and planned to continue studying law or business after graduation. She also loved dance and pursued that passion while at William & Mary, Ambler said.
Funeral services for Guy will be held at 2 p.m. Monday at County Line Baptist Church in Vernon Hill, Virginia. Flowers and cards can be sent to Jefferson Funeral Home at 2000 N. Main St., South Boston, VA 24592. Her obituary can be viewed at www.yourgv.com/obituaries/zhykierra-zhane-zhy-guy/article_959b10ae-19a8-11ed-84d9-d7a1d0e0a933.html.
Any William & Mary students needing support are encouraged to reach out to the Dean of Students Office (757-221-2510) or the Counseling Center (757-221-3620).
Henrico police are seeking the community’s help during the investigation. Those who have information are asked to contact detectives at 804-501-5794, Crime Stoppers at 804-780-1000 or provide an online tip at P3Tips.com.
Sian Wilkerson, sian.wilkerson@pilotonline.com, 757-342-6616
