Loved Ones Believe Deadly Trap Was Laid for Young Father in Early Morning Ambush
NORFOLK, VA — A Norfolk family is grieving the devastating loss of 32-year-old Dion Melton, who was fatally shot early Sunday morning in what relatives are calling a deliberate and calculated setup. As police continue their investigation, the community is left grappling with yet another act of gun violence that claimed a life far too soon.
Norfolk Police responded to a call just after 1:15 a.m. on July 13 in the 900 block of Bagnall Road. Officers arrived to find Melton suffering from critical gunshot wounds. He was transported to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
The home where the shooting occurred quickly became the center of an intense investigation. Witnesses described seeing tactical units breach the residence and investigators combing through the scene well into the morning. Crime scene tape blocked off the street as neighbors watched in shock, and police canvassed the area for information and surveillance footage.
While authorities have not yet released details regarding a motive or suspect, Melton’s family believes the young father was deliberately lured to the location under false pretenses.
“He was set up,” said a family spokesperson. “He thought he was going to see someone he trusted. Instead, he walked into a trap — and it cost him his life.”
Melton’s father, Cedric Cradle, stood heartbroken outside the crime scene, reflecting on the son he raised and lost. “He had his struggles, like anyone,” Cradle admitted. “But he wasn’t violent. He didn’t carry guns. He wasn’t that type of man.”
Family members say Dion had gone to visit a woman that night but was instead met by another individual who, they believe, ambushed him and opened fire. Though the investigation remains ongoing, the family’s account paints a picture of betrayal and premeditated violence.
“This wasn’t random,” said one relative. “Someone knew he was coming. Someone planned this.”
Melton’s death has left a painful void in the lives of those who loved him — especially his children, who now face a future without their father. Despite his imperfections, family say he had a big heart and tried to be present for his loved ones.
As of Tuesday, no arrests have been made. The Norfolk Police Department is asking anyone with information — no matter how small — to come forward. Detectives are reviewing area surveillance and urging neighbors to check security cameras for any suspicious activity between midnight and 2 a.m.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Norfolk Police Homicide Unit at (757) 664-7023, or leave an anonymous tip through the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP.
For the Melton family, justice cannot come soon enough.
“All we want is the truth,” Cradle said quietly. “And justice for Dion. He didn’t deserve this.