RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) – The family of a Richmond Fire Lieutenant, and mother-of-three, killed in a shooting on Thanksgiving night, is now releasing a statement.
“The family of Lieutenant Ashley Nicole Berry wishes to thank all who have shown love and support during this very difficult time. Please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers. The family is very appreciative of the First Responders of the City of Hopewell, John Randolph Medical Center, VCU Medical Center in responding to this unfortunate and tragic situation. We are also forever grateful to the City of Richmond Fire and Emergency Services Department for their continued love and support during this trying time,” said a family spokesperson.
The family also released a Bible verse which they called “the scripture Ashley lived by.”
Matthew 17:20-21
20) So Jesus said to them, “Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you. 21) However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”
On November 28, 2019 at 11:39 P.M., officers responded to the 1000 block of Sunnyside Avenue, where they found a woman who had been shot.
Police said Berry, 33, of Chesterfield County, was taken first to John Randolph Medical Center and then to VCU Medical Center, where she passed.
The Richmond Fire Department said Berry leaves behind three children.
The family’s statement went on to say Ashley lived by the scripture Matthew 17:20-21: “20) So Jesus said to them, “Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you. 21) However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”
The Richmond Fire Department confirmed that Lt. Berry had been a dedicated firefighter with the department for eight years. She was recently promoted to the Richmond Fire Marshals Office, this past year.
“Lt. Berry was a valued member of our Fire Department family and the community she served proudly since January 29, 2011,” a Facebook post stated. “She was recently assigned to our Fire Marshals Office this year.”
“Please keep LT Berry’s family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” RFD said. “She will be missed but never forgotten.”
The Richmond Firefighters Association IAFF Local-995 also offered condolences Friday to the family of their fallen member.