Akron, Ohio – The mayor and police chief of Akron are urging witnesses to come forward with information regarding a mass shooting that occurred in the city, resulting in the death of one person and injuring 24 others, some critically, just after midnight on Sunday.
Mayor Shammas Malik described the incident as tragic and emphasized the impact it has had on the entire community. The shooting claimed the life of a 27-year-old man, with the wounded individuals ranging in age from 19 to 43, according to Police Chief Brian Harding.
In total, there were 25 victims, including the deceased individual, with at least two of the wounded victims in critical condition. Akron police Captain Michael Miller noted that others sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Authorities reported finding two handguns and over 35 bullet shell casings at the site of the outdoor party where the shooting occurred. Local hospitals alerted emergency dispatchers to the arrival of multiple victims with gunshot wounds in their emergency departments shortly after.
No arrests have been made yet, and police are urging anyone with information to contact detectives. Rewards totaling $22,500 for information leading to the arrest of a suspect have been offered by various agencies, including Summit County Crime Stoppers, the U.S. Marshal’s Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
The mayor emphasized the importance of holding individuals accountable for committing violence to ensure the safety of communities. Prior to the shooting, witnesses reported a street party in the area where hundreds of people were enjoying themselves, with women dancing on vehicles wearing white T-shirts.
The community is shaken by the tragic events of the mass shooting, and authorities are actively seeking information to bring those responsible to justice. The investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement officials are working diligently to resolve the case and provide closure to the victims and their families.