Suffolk Community Grieves Loss of Steaven Ray Hamlin After Tragic Morning Crash
SUFFOLK, Va. — The tight-knit community of Suffolk is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 66-year-old Steaven Ray Hamlin, who tragically lost his life after being struck by a vehicle on Thursday morning near the intersection of Kissimmee Avenue and Factory Street. The fatal incident, which occurred shortly after 10:40 a.m., has left residents reeling and authorities piecing together the circumstances that led to the tragedy.
According to the Suffolk Police Department, officers and emergency medical responders were dispatched immediately after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting that a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle at the busy intersection. When first responders arrived, they found Mr. Hamlin lying unresponsive in the roadway with severe injuries. Despite the rapid efforts of paramedics to save his life, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Police officials confirmed that the driver of the vehicle involved remained at the scene and cooperated fully with the investigation. As of Thursday afternoon, no charges had been filed, and investigators continue to review surveillance footage, witness statements, and physical evidence from the site to determine the sequence of events that led to the collision.
Steaven Ray Hamlin, known fondly by many in the Suffolk community, had lived in the city for decades and was described as a kind, humble man with a big heart. Neighbors recall his friendly smile, his willingness to help others, and his deep pride in his family and roots in Suffolk. For those who knew him, his passing is not just a community tragedy — it is a deeply personal loss.
“He was always waving at everyone, no matter who you were,” said longtime neighbor James Porter, who lived near Hamlin for over 15 years. “He made this neighborhood feel like family. It’s hard to believe he’s gone.”
At the scene, police blocked off Kissimmee Avenue and Factory Street for several hours as the Crash Investigation Team processed the area, marking tire tracks, debris, and impact points. Detectives are working to determine whether speed, visibility, or other contributing factors played a role in the crash. Officials from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) were also notified to assess traffic safety conditions in the area, which has long been known for its mix of pedestrian and vehicle activity.
Family members of Mr. Hamlin have requested privacy during this difficult time but expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from neighbors and friends. A relative shared that Steaven had been out walking to a nearby store when the tragic event occurred. Plans for a memorial service are being arranged, and loved ones have indicated that his celebration of life will focus on his kindness, humor, and unwavering love for his family.
“He was one of those people who made everyone feel seen,” said a family friend. “He didn’t have much, but he gave what he could — time, laughter, compassion. That’s the kind of man Steaven was.”
The Suffolk Police Department’s Traffic Unit continues to investigate, and officials have asked anyone who witnessed the collision or has dashcam footage from the area around 10:30–11:00 a.m. Thursday to come forward.
As the city of Suffolk grieves the loss of Steaven Ray Hamlin, tributes continue to pour in across social media and from the broader community. A small memorial of flowers and candles now marks the intersection of Kissimmee Avenue and Factory Street — a quiet reminder of a life taken too soon and the lasting impact one man can leave on a community.
In Memory of Steaven Ray Hamlin (1959–2025)
A neighbor, a friend, a kind soul whose presence will be dearly missed.
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