Local actor mortally wounded after attempting to aid stranger in domestic dispute
A renowned local actor, Adam Turck, is not expected to survive after being shot on Saturday morning while attempting to assist in a domestic dispute.
Richmond police wrote that a 19-year-old man was confronting a female in Shockoe Bottom at about 10:17 a.m. on Saturday morning. The confrontation prompted others nearby to place 911 calls.
According to police, a man passed the confrontation while walking his dog, and attempted to intervene. The 19-year-old shot that man, then himself.
Multiple social media posts have identified the intervening man as Turck, who is 35 years old.
“This is a tragic story of gun violence against a person who was simply trying to de-escalate a disturbing argument,” said Chief Rick Edwards. “This is a heartbreaking reminder that we must, as a community, continue to combat gun violence in our society.”
Rachel Garmon-Williams, the founder of Bridge 9 Theater, wrote on social media that she had been in contact with Turck's family.
"He will keep saving lives as an organ donor and begins that journey soon," she wrote. "Community mattered so much to him, please love and support each other. Share stories, talk to each other, and respect the privacy of those who need it most."
Other members of Richmond's theater scene reached out to share their condolences.
"We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Adam Turck, a gifted actor, passionate activist, and beloved member of our community," the Virginia Rep Theatre wrote. "Adam was a light, both on stage and in every space he entered. His artistry, integrity, and fierce compassion touched so many of us. This is a profound loss we share as a community."
Turck was also a trainer locally at Tequila and Deadlifts.
"Tragedy doesn’t feel like a big enough word," the gym's owner wrote. "Shattered. The fabric of our world torn apart. The heartbeat of our gym has been ripped from our chest. This loss is unfathomable. It’s like trying to breathe with a punctured lung."
Police are asking anyone with additional information to contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000.
Contact Michael Phillips at mphillips@richmonder.org.
