Ronald R. Estes III Obituary, Death – Chesterfield County Police have released the identity of a man who was fatally shot by officers early Thursday morning, following a reported shooting incident tied to a domestic dispute. Authorities confirmed that the deceased is 23-year-old Ronald R. Estes III.
According to a statement from the Chesterfield Police Department, the incident began in the early morning hours of Thursday, April 24. At approximately 4:30 a.m., officers were dispatched to a residence on Birnam Woods Drive in the Brandermill neighborhood after receiving a call about a disturbance involving gunfire. The individual who made the report informed police that a male suspect—later identified as Estes—had discharged a firearm during an altercation. After the shooting, Estes reportedly fled the scene before police arrived.
Roughly one hour later, at around 5:30 a.m., officers located Estes near the intersection of Genito Road and Old Hundred Road, a short distance away from the initial location of the disturbance. Police say that when they attempted to approach him, Estes produced a firearm and fired at least one shot. In response, three officers discharged their weapons, striking Estes. He was pronounced dead at the scene by responding personnel.
No officers were injured during the exchange of gunfire. The police department confirmed that the three officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave, which is standard protocol while an internal investigation into the incident is underway.
The police have not released further details about the initial dispute or any possible connection between Estes and the person or persons involved in the reported domestic disturbance. It also remains unclear whether he was targeting anyone specifically when he fired the gun at the residence on Birnam Woods Drive.
Investigators are working to piece together a complete timeline of events, from the original 911 call to the fatal encounter near Genito and Old Hundred roads. Police have said that they are reviewing body camera footage and other evidence from the scene as they conduct their investigation. Additionally, statements from witnesses and the officers involved will likely play a crucial role in determining the full context of what occurred.
Chesterfield Police have encouraged anyone with information related to the case to come forward. Individuals who may have seen the events unfold or who have knowledge of Estes’s movements prior to the shooting are asked to contact the Chesterfield County Police Department directly at 804-748-1251. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Solvers by calling 804-748-0660.
As with any officer-involved shooting, this case will be closely scrutinized by both the department and the public. Transparency and accountability are key elements in such investigations, and officials have stated that more information will be shared as it becomes available.
The death of Ronald R. Estes III has sparked conversations within the community about the use of force, mental health, and access to firearms. While details about his background or potential motives have not been released, the violent confrontation and its tragic outcome have left many residents searching for answers.
For now, the focus remains on the investigation, which aims to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the fatal shooting. The officers’ use of deadly force will be examined in light of department policies and state laws, with findings to be released at a later stage.
Estes’s family has not yet issued a public statement, and funeral arrangements have not been made available. It’s unknown whether he had a history of criminal activity, mental health struggles, or prior interactions with law enforcement, though such information may be disclosed as the investigation continues.
In the meantime, Chesterfield Police are emphasizing their commitment to conducting a thorough and impartial review of the incident. The department also reaffirmed its support for the officers involved, noting that administrative leave is a routine measure meant to ensure a fair investigation.
As the case develops, local residents are being asked to remain patient and allow investigators the time necessary to collect and analyze all relevant information. Community leaders have called for calm and urged against making assumptions before all the facts are known.
The fatal encounter underscores the unpredictable nature of police work, especially when firearms are involved. It also highlights the potential danger faced by officers responding to volatile situations, even in cases where the initial complaint involves a domestic dispute.
While many questions remain unanswered, authorities hope the ongoing investigation will ultimately provide a clearer picture of the events that led to the death of Ronald R. Estes III. Further updates are expected from Chesterfield County Police as the inquiry continues.