Skyler Ann Merenda, 18, was shot and killed during a home invasion in the early morning hours of August 15, 2022, at a residence on Bufflehead Drive in Gloucester, Virginia. Her boyfriend, 20-year-old Ramel Wilson, was also wounded by gunfire, suffering a leg injury. Four couples were in the home at the time.

Skyler was born in Gloucester on October 15, 2003. Family remembered her as gentle and kind, someone who loved camping, skiing, the beach, reading, chorus, church activities and participating in NJROTC. She is described as putting others before herself and leaving a lasting positive impact on many lives.

The investigation led to the arrest of 26-year-old Tyrell Lamont Samuel of Saluda; a grand jury indicted him in May 2023. A three-day jury trial in Gloucester County Circuit Court resulted in a guilty verdict on August 2, 2024, finding Samuel guilty of first-degree murder and several related felonies, including malicious wounding, two counts of using a firearm in the commission of a felony, armed burglary and possession of a firearm by a felon. Sentencing was scheduled for November 12, 2024.

Did anyone know Skyler or have information about the night of August 15, 2022?