FCHS Basketball Coach and Virginia Native Tony Gill Fatally Shot in Gretna; Suspect James Mattox Arrested
Authorities are continuing to identify and speak with potential witnesses.
July 29, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on July 29, 2026
Tony Gill, the head coach of the Franklin County High School girls’ basketball team, passed away on Sunday, July 27, 2026, after a tragic firearm incident.
According , Authorities from the Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, Gretna Police Department, and Virginia State Police responded to a call around 9:20 p.m. on Sunday and discovered the body of 46-year-old Tony Demond Gill, who was fatally shot at 1344 West Gretna Road.
His body was transported to the medical examiner’s office to determine the exact cause and manner of death.
Furthermore, officials have arrested 52-year-old suspect James Mattox in connection with the shooting.
He has been charged with murder and using a firearm in the commission of a felony. Investigators confirmed that Mattox and Gill knew each other.
Mattox appeared in Pittsylvania County General District Court on the morning of Monday, July 28, 2026.
He is currently being held without bond. A bond hearing has been scheduled for August 19, 2026, and a preliminary hearing is set for September 15, 2026, at 1:30 p.m., both in Pittsylvania County General District Court.
Although the motive behind the shooting has not yet been determined, the investigation remains active.
Social Media is Filled With Heartfelt Tributes To Late Basketball Coach, Tony Gill
The untimely and tragic demise of the beloved Rocky Mount, Virginia, native and basketball coach has left a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, and loved ones.
In addition to serving as the head coach of Franklin County High School’s girls’ basketball team, the late Tony Gill also served as the english special education teacher of the high school, a position he had held since 2013.
Furthermore, Franklin County High School released a statement recalling the memories of their longtime teacher and coach, Tony Gill, and extending their heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time.
The statement reads:
“Mr. Gill was more than an educator and coach, he was a mentor, role model, and friend to countless scholars, staff members, and families within our school community. His passion for teaching and coaching was matched only by his dedication to the growth and well-being of every scholar he encountered. Whether in the classroom or on the court, Mr. Gill led with integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment. His legacy will live on in the lives of the many scholars he inspired and the colleagues who had the privilege to work alongside him. We mourn this tremendous loss together and extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, scholars, and all who were touched by his life.”
Similarly, many of his students and loved ones also shared a heartfelt tribute to the late Tony Gill on social media.
One wrote:
“I’m grateful for the times we got to share both young and more experienced as we would say! Your smile lit up a room and I know you are preparing a way in Heaven for an even greater game! Tony thank you for your light and your joy that you shared with so many! My deepest and most sincere condolences to Tofic, the family, the friends, your players and our school/community! Love you my brother… until we meet again Deuce here cuuuuu ❤️🙏🏽✌🏽.”
Tony Gill is survived by his wife, Cheryl; son, Jaylyn Gill; daughters, Jakaylyn and Jazlyn; son-in-laws; grandchildren; siblings; and the entire family.
Furthermore, Tony Gill’s son, Jaylyn, followed in his footsteps in sports, playing varsity football at Franklin County and Liberty Christian Academy.
further continued his football journey at Ferrum College and Livingstone College, and currently works as a Health Teacher and Coach.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- The late Tony Gill played basketball at Franklin County High School and Liberty University.
- His family has yet to provide details about his funeral and memorial services.
- Check other Articles on
Suruchi is a business management student with a strong passion for writing, particularly when it comes to sports. She loves creating articles and blogs that explore various aspects of the sports world. With a curious mind and a love for both academics and creativity, she constantly seeks to expand her knowledge and share her insights through her writing.
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