A tragic shooting occurred at a street party in Akron on Saturday night, resulting in 25 people being injured by gunfire. Among the victims, a 27-year-old man lost his life, and two others are in critical condition.
Akron police and fire officials, along with Mayor Shammas Malik, held a press conference on Sunday evening. Police Chief Brian Harding stated that the incident seemed to be a drive-by shooting at a birthday party on Kelly and Eighth avenues that had spilled onto the street.
At approximately 10 p.m., police responded to a private residence where the party was taking place, with around 200 attendees. They instructed the crowd to disperse due to traffic concerns. However, people returned to the party between 10 p.m. and midnight, and shortly after midnight, police began receiving reports of gunfire.
Upon arrival, police discovered two handguns and various shell casings, including those from a rifle. There have been no arrests made, and no suspects identified in the investigation.
Mayor Shammas Malik emphasized accountability: “Anyone who was involved in last night’s shooting will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
Chief Harding assured 19 News that detectives are working tirelessly to make arrests: “We have received a few initial leads and are following up on those. We are working with stakeholders, additional patrols, and resources.”
Officers responded to the area of Kelly Avenue and 8th Avenue just after midnight following multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired with several victims struck. At the press conference, Akron Police disclosed that the victims’ ages ranged from 19 to 43 years old.
Police had initially dispersed the party, but nearly 100 people returned around midnight. It is believed the suspect(s) fired from a car at the partygoers, who also returned fire.
On the scene, police recovered two handguns and over 35 shell casings, including some from a rifle.
Summa Health received 15 patients, with 13 suffering non-life-threatening injuries. One patient is in critical condition, and the 27-year-old man was pronounced dead on arrival. Several of the 13 patients with non-life-threatening injuries have already been discharged.
Summa Health spokesperson Mike Bernstein expressed sympathy: “Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. I want to thank our first responders and caregivers for everything they did to care for our patients and community.”
Cleveland Clinic Akron General admitted nine patients with gunshot wounds. One patient remains in critical condition. Three were treated for non-life-threatening injuries and released. The Emergency Department was on hard lockdown until 3:26 a.m.
A partygoer described the chaotic scene: “We’re outside, enjoying ourselves, and the next thing you know, we’re running for our lives. That fast. A lot of people out there but there wasn’t no drama, no commotion, no fighting. Nothing. I don’t know why,” said Joyoux Payne. “We were all just out here having fun, we’re all dancin’ everybody listening to music and next thing you know, the gunshots went off as we’re all dancing, As we’re all enjoying ourselves, there’s bullets are ringing out. How? Why? That fast.”
Mayor Shammas Malik released a statement on the incident:
“This morning, our city is reeling after the devastation of senseless violence. With more than two dozen victims, the pain and trauma reverberate across all of Akron today as we search for answers. As with all acts of violence in our city, our hearts are with the victims and their loved ones.
We will bring those responsible to justice, and we need the help of our community to do that. For those who have information about this horrific shooting – we need you to speak up in order to prevent further violence and retaliation. This can be done anonymously.
Today, and in the days ahead, we will share more information about this horrific incident. Our city government and our Akron Police Department will continue to prioritize public safety as our number one concern as we aim to end gun violence in our community.”
Chief Harding and Mayor Malik urged the community to provide any information they have. Crimestoppers and the U.S. Marshals are offering a $22,500 reward for information leading to the arrest of a suspect(s).
Anyone with information is encouraged to call Akron police at 330-375-2490 or 330-375-2Tip.
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