Virginia Beach Man Sentenced to 27 Years for Second-Degree Murder

Jaquan Marion Brayboy pleaded guilty to killing Kyree Blackledge during a drug deal gone wrong.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 9:36pm

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Jaquan Marion Brayboy, 25, has been sentenced to 27 years in prison for second-degree murder, use of a firearm in commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Brayboy pleaded guilty to shooting and killing Kyree Blackledge, 21, during a drug deal in January 2023 in Virginia Beach.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence and drug-related crimes in Virginia Beach, as well as the challenges of prosecuting self-defense claims when a victim is unarmed. Brayboy's prior criminal record also raises questions about bail reform and repeat offender laws.

The details

According to prosecutors, Blackledge went to meet Brayboy to buy marijuana, accompanied by a female friend who was driving. Brayboy approached the passenger side and exchanged words with Blackledge, but the drug transaction did not take place. The argument escalated, and Brayboy fired two shots, striking and killing Blackledge. The woman driving panicked and fled the scene, later contacting Blackledge's friends and family. Investigators found messages between Brayboy and Blackledge about drug deals and surveillance footage that provided evidence. Brayboy confessed to the shooting but claimed self-defense, though no weapon was found on Blackledge.

  • Shooting occurred on January 2023 in Virginia Beach.
  • Brayboy pleaded guilty on September 3, 2025.
  • Brayboy was sentenced on March 16, 2026.

The players

Jaquan Marion Brayboy

A 25-year-old Virginia Beach resident who was convicted of second-degree murder, use of a firearm in commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Kyree Blackledge

A 21-year-old man who was shot and killed by Brayboy during a drug deal.

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What’s next

The judge's sentencing decision will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for how the courts handle similar cases involving self-defense claims and repeat offenders.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for comprehensive solutions to address gun violence and drug-related crimes in Virginia Beach, including improved community-police relations, investment in youth programs, and reforms to the criminal justice system to better support rehabilitation and prevent recidivism.