INDEPENDENCE, Va. — As the Virginia Department of Corrections continues to investigate the inmate attack that killed Corrections Officer Jeremy Lewis Hall, members of the local community are stepping forward to support Hall’s family in the wake of the tragedy.
A GoFundMe launched after Hall’s death drew a swift and significant response, raising more than $15,000 in the first 48 hours. The effort, organized by a family friend, highlights the impact Hall had on those around him — both as a corrections officer, a husband and a father.
The GoFundMe page was created by organizer Kaitlin Burton, who described Hall, 40, as a “kind soul” who was deeply devoted to his family. Hall, who worked at River North Correctional Center, was killed on Nov. 17 after being attacked by an inmate. Two additional officers who were also injured were treated and released.
Burton wrote that the fundraiser aims to help Hall’s wife and family manage both immediate needs and the months ahead. The couple shared a 30-acre farm, and Hall’s death, she said, leaves a sudden emotional and financial void.
Burton also recalled meeting Hall during a ribbon-cutting for Dawn’s counseling practice in Galax, describing a moment in which Hall stepped back to watch his wife realize her dream. “It is so truly sad to know that this kind soul is no longer here, and grief takes over his beautiful family,” she wrote.
Support the family of Officer Jeremy Hall
A GoFundMe campaign has been created to support the family of Corrections Officer Jeremy Lewis Hall following his line-of-duty death at River North Correctional Center. Donations will help his family as they navigate this devastating loss.
Donate to the GoFundMeThe fundraiser comes as VADOC Director Chad Dotson continues to emphasize accountability and support in the aftermath of Hall’s death. Dotson pledged that justice for Hall will be pursued “thoroughly and without delay,” and the agency has deployed critical incident stress management teams and additional support services to River North staff.
Hall had served with VADOC since April 2024. Dotson described him as a dedicated officer who “showed up for every shift with a smile” and spoke often of his family.
The attack remains under investigation by the VADOC Office of Law Enforcement Services and the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Officials say additional information about honoring Hall will be released in the coming days.
The fundraiser for Hall’s family remains active as the community continues to show support.
The inmate accused in Hall’s killing was identified as 32-year-old John Holomon Russell. He is serving an active sentence of nearly 12 years for carjacking and related convictions, the department said.
