Shockoe Bottom Businesses Struggle After Mass Shooting

Neighbors say they feel the impact of the violence one week later

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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One week after a mass shooting in Shockoe Bottom, Richmond, Virginia that killed two people and injured seven others, local business owners and residents say they are still feeling the impact. Foot traffic has slowed, safety measures have been increased, and some residents are even considering moving out of the neighborhood due to the gun violence.

Why it matters

The Shockoe Bottom area of Richmond is known for its vibrant nightlife and dining scene, but the recent mass shooting has shaken the community and raised concerns about public safety. The economic and emotional toll on local businesses and residents highlights the broader impact of gun violence on urban communities.

The details

Margaritas restaurant manager Tiffany Harvey said foot traffic has been slow since the shooting, leading her to enforce new safety measures like keeping the back door locked at all times. The owner of La Bodega said the day after the shooting, he only saw three customers all day, and business is now the slowest it's been in seven years. Resident Johny Bell, who moved to Shockoe from New Jersey two months ago, said he is already looking to move again because of the gun violence, which he described as feeling like a "warzone." Richmond Police have increased patrols in the area, but tension remains high.

  • The mass shooting occurred on February 21, 2026.
  • One week after the shooting, on February 28, 2026, businesses and residents were still feeling the impact.

The players

Tiffany Harvey

The manager of Margaritas restaurant in Shockoe Bottom.

La Bodega owner

The owner of the La Bodega restaurant, who asked not to appear on camera.

Johny Bell

A resident who moved to Shockoe Bottom from New Jersey two months ago.

Richmond Police

The local law enforcement agency that has increased patrols in the Shockoe Bottom area.

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What they’re saying

“It's not as many people, we don't get the same crowd. People are trying to leave early once it get's dark.”

— Tiffany Harvey, Manager, Margaritas restaurant (wtvr.com)

“It was like a warzone to me. So it's like, I looked outside and I saw bodies on the ground.”

— Johny Bell, Resident (wtvr.com)

“I do go down to Margaritas, but now I don't feel comfortable no more.”

— Johny Bell, Resident (wtvr.com)

What’s next

Richmond Police have increased patrols in the Shockoe Bottom area, and city leaders plan to hold a meeting with business owners on March 19 to discuss a stronger safety plan for the neighborhood.

The takeaway

The mass shooting in Shockoe Bottom has had a significant impact on the local businesses and residents, highlighting the broader consequences of gun violence on urban communities. The increased police presence and planned meeting with city leaders suggest an effort to address the community's concerns and restore a sense of safety and security in the neighborhood.