Family speaks about ODU student's death

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - On Chris Cummings' facebook page there is a list of people who inspired him most, and right next to President Barack Obama sits a picture of his uncle, Congressman Elijah Cummings.

"Christopher was the kind of child you had to be close to, I mean, he was just that kind of guy," said Representative Cummings, (D) Maryland.

Representative Cummings thinks back to Friday when he heard from his frantic sister-in-law.

"His mother called me hysterical, saying that something had happened to Christopher."

It didn't take long for word to spread from the scene on West 42nd Street in Norfolk to the Congressman.

"Finally she told me that he had been killed."

Cumming's nephew, Christopher, was shot and killed early Friday morning. Police say his roommate was sent to the hospital with injuries.

The congressman says he's consoled other families suffering from tragic losses like this, but admits he's never been on the other side until now.

"I can't even describe the pain. This was a guy who was just a good kid."

After the deadly shooting near campus, ODU President John Broderick released a letter stating the university is working hard to improve campus safety.  He says they're "putting into place" a national security consultant's safety recommendations.

He says they've "hired additional officers, enhanced the lighting in garages, and installed more 'blue light' emergency phones."

The letter also says the university will continue urging Norfolk officials to make "additional safety measures for the off-campus neighborhood" where this shooting and other crimes recently occurred.

While ODU strives for safer surroundings, the Cummings's work to understand why they have to say goodbye to this young man they say made everyday better.

"He was the kind of kid who most people would say boy, I wish I had him for a son," said Representative Cummings.

Norfolk Police are still investigating this case. If you have any information that can help police with their investigation, call the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK U UP.  Remember, you can remain anonymous and will never be asked to testify in court.