A tragic incident unfolded in Akron, Ohio over the weekend, where a birthday celebration came to a devastating halt due to a disturbing mass shooting. The shocking incident resulted in the loss of one life and inflicted injuries upon 25 individuals, two of whom are in critical condition. The authorities are determined to unravel the events and have announced a substantial reward of $22,500 in their quest for answers.
According to a neighbor’s doorbell camera and witness accounts, the chaotic scene unfolded when shots were fired at an outdoor party. Earlier that night, the police had already intervened and dispersed the crowd.
Akron Mayor Shammas Malik and Police Chief Brian Harding expressed their deep concern and sorrow over the senseless violence that has struck our city. In a joint statement on Sunday, they acknowledged the pain and trauma caused by this tragic event, which has affected more than two dozen victims. As the community grapples with this devastating incident, the search for answers continues.
Here’s what happened, according to Harding:
- Police broke up a large birthday celebration in Akron around 10 p.m. Saturday night. Harding said there were fireworks and “loud noises.” Over 200 people attended the party and “had taken over the street.”
- The party got started again sometime after the police left.
- After midnight, police began receiving reports of gunshots coming from the same location.
During a press conference, Harding described the scene as being filled with spent shell cases, primarily consisting of pistol caliber rounds.
Harding states that the arrangement of the shell cases at the scene suggests that someone fired shots out of a car while driving by.
During the investigation, the police have come to the conclusion that individuals who were present at the party may have retaliated by firing back at the suspect. However, it remains unclear whether the shooter or their vehicle sustained any damage. The authorities are uncertain about the exact number of shooters involved, but they suspect that a rifle was used in the incident. Furthermore, the police have managed to recover two handguns as part of their ongoing investigation.
Witness accounts, neighbor’s doorbell camera describe chaotic scene
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Joyous Payne, who attended the party, expressed her disbelief at the sudden and unexpected shift from enjoyment to a life-threatening situation. According to Akron Beacon Journal, part of the USA TODAY Network.
According to Payne, who is 21 years old, the atmosphere at the party was lively. Music filled the air as people danced and sang, and there was no sign of any conflict or fighting.
She stated that there was no drama.
As the festivities were in full swing, chaos ensued when unexpected gunfire erupted, causing panic and people to scatter. According to Payne, the situation quickly turned dangerous, with some unfortunate individuals even being trampled in the frantic stampede.
During a conversation with the Akron Beacon Journal, Treasure Bell, 31, a fellow attendee at the party, recounted witnessing a man who had suffered a gunshot wound to his face.
“I can’t believe all of that happened,” exclaimed Payne, still in disbelief. “It was absolutely insane!”
According to Payne, she recently relocated to the area where the party took place. She mentioned that none of the individuals she attended the event with were among those who sustained injuries.
Who are the victims?
According to the Akron Beacon Journal, a 27-year-old man tragically lost his life in the shooting incident. The USA TODAY Network reported that he was already deceased upon arrival at the hospital, as confirmed by a representative from Summa Health.
According to a press release from the mayor’s office released on Sunday night, a total of 25 people were injured, with at least two victims in critical condition.
During the press conference, Harding revealed that the victims’ ages span from 19 to 43, with the majority falling in their thirties.
Reward worth thousands
The City of Akron has recently announced that individuals who provide information leading to an arrest may be eligible to receive a reward of up to $22,500.
If you have any information, please reach out to the Akron Police Department Detective Bureau at 330-375-2490 or 330-375-2Tip.
People who want to stay anonymous take the following steps:
- Call Summit County Crimestoppers at 330-434-COPS.
- Text TIPSCO with your tips to 274637.
Julia, a reporter for USA TODAY, is known for her trending stories. With her versatile writing skills, she has covered a wide range of topics, including local businesses and government in her hometown of Miami, as well as tech and pop culture. If you want to stay updated with Julia’s work, you can connect with her on LinkedIn or follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, where you can find her under the handle @juliamariegz.
Witnesses and a doorbell camera were able to capture the chaotic scene that unfolded after a shooting in Akron, which resulted in one person dead and 25 others injured. The footage provides a glimpse into the aftermath of the tragic incident, offering a raw and firsthand account of the chaos and devastation that ensued.
