A couple of points from an old aviator;
1) Yes, I certainly would have CONSIDERED going into Richmond. I would even consider a full ILS to touchdown. Any pilot who has not practiced an ILS in the sim (or even your home PC) to touchdown in zero viz is not fair dinkum. It is so easy to reduce your ROD at the appropriate height. It's not hard. Try it. You will surprise yourself.
Hey, You have acres and acres of FLAT ground on and around the runway.
2) I would have also implemented a drift down procedure as altitude and airspeed are imperative. Stuff the ducking under the steps crap.
3) Nobody has mentioned the infamous phrase "COMMERCIAL PRESSURE".
I can imagine that this pilot would have been hearing the words of DS saying, that he has cost the company $xxxx by landing at Richmond.
This is a very real scenario.
4) This guy tried REALLY HARD. Unfortunately, I think he may have lacked the experience necessary to make alternative decisions.