Actor Adam Turck, 35, was shot dead in Richmond, Virginia, after trying to help a woman during a domestic dispute. Turck, known and loved in the Virginia acting community, was walking his dog on August 2 when he saw a woman arguing with her boyfriend.

Witnesses say Turck stepped in to calm the situation. A 19-year-old man involved in the argument pulled out a gun, shot Turck, and then turned the gun on himself. “Adam put his life on the line to protect someone in need,” his family said. “If Adam had not been there, the person he helped would not be with us today.”

Richmond Police Chief Rick Edwards called it “a tragic story of gun violence against a person who was simply trying to de-escalate a disturbing argument.” Virginia Repertory Theatre remembered Turck as “a gifted actor, passionate activist, and beloved member of our community.”

Friends and fans described him as talented, funny, and kind. His death has left a deep void in the local theatre scene and among those who knew him personally.