Tragic Loss of a Young Entrepreneur

A 17-year-old self-proclaimed “Lemonade King” was fatally shot while driving in a residential area of Virginia, mere weeks after finishing high school.

Aubrey Green, the mind behind Breezy’s Lemonade, was identified as the victim found with gunshot wounds after police were called to a car crash at a Richmond residence shortly before 5 p.m. on July 5.

After being shot, Green collided with a shed at his home and succumbed to his injuries days later.

His mother announced his passing on Wednesday through the company’s Instagram account, expressing profound grief.

Caedria McCray wrote in a heartfelt tribute, “We never thought Breezy wouldn’t be with us. King Breezy, born Aubrey, became a legend in our city in just 17 years. We miss you so much and have so many questions.” She went on to promise that his legacy would endure, stating, “Nothing can destroy what you built. Life feels strange without you, but I know you’re still with us in spirit.”

Green’s mother further elaborated on his dedication to his craft, saying, “Breezy loved what he created and worked harder than anyone. This isn’t just a loss; it’s the start of something new. Watch over your siblings; our work isn’t finished yet. Let’s continue Breezy’s Lemonade and dare to be different.”

Green established her lemonade stand back in June 2019 when she was just 11, initially aiming to support her older brother who sold food at events. According to the company’s biography, Green was determined to turn her ideas into reality through hard work and creativity.

After starting with three flavors, Green’s business quickly grew, especially during the pandemic. By 2022, she introduced 10 new flavors and expanded her offerings to include herbal teas, mugs, hats, and T-shirts. A lemon-headed mascot and a mobile trailer were also added to the brand.

Having graduated from Richmond Public Schools’ Huguenot High School on May 26, Green was celebrated by her lemonade community, which remarked on her accomplishments with encouragement.

Following the shooting, no arrests have been made, and McCray has requested that anyone with information, however minor, come forward to assist in the investigation.

“We ask anyone who might know something to help us,” she said.