AKRON, Ohio — A 27-year-old man is dead and two dozen others are injured following a shooting in Akron early Sunday morning, police said.
In a press conference Sunday evening, Akron Police Chief Brian Harding said officers were first called to a residence on Kelly Avenue around 10 p.m. after reports of a large gathering with fireworks and loud noise. Officers were able to disperse the crowd of nearly 200 people without incident.
Just after midnight, the 911 call center received several calls about shots being fired in the same area of Kelly Avenue and multiple victims being struck, police said. Shortly after those calls, the dispatch center also received calls from local hospitals that multiple people were arriving with gunshot wounds.
According to police, there were 25 total gunshot victims, one of whom died. His identity has not yet been released, but authorities say he was 27 years old.
Those injured ranged in age from 19 to 43, said Harding.
Two handguns and several dozen shell casings have been recovered from the scene.
It is unclear what led up to the shooting. Harding said no arrests have been made and there is no suspect information at this time.
Two agencies — Summit County Crime Stoppers and the U.S. Marshal's Service — are offering a total of $12,500 in rewards for information leading to the arrests of suspects in connection with the shooting.
Akron Mayor Shammas Malik and Harding released the following statement Sunday morning:
“This morning, our city is reeling after the devastation of senseless violence. With more than two dozen victims, the pain and trauma reverberates 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. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Akron Police Department Detective Bureau at 330-375-2490 or 330-375-2Tip. Citizens may also provide anonymous information to any of the following:
The Summit County Crimestoppers, call 330-434-COPS.
Text TIPSCO with your tips to 274637.
Download the Akron PD app and submit information by texting Tips411 or by accessing the link on our website www.AkronCops.org.”
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