AKRON, Ohio—The mayor and police chief of Akron are urging witnesses to come forward with any information regarding a shooting in the Ohio city that resulted in the death of one person and left 24 others injured, some critically.
“This was a tragic incident that has deeply affected our entire community,” Mayor Shammas Malik stated about the shooting that occurred shortly after midnight on Sunday. “The number of victims is both shocking and troubling. I want to make it clear: Anyone involved in last night’s shooting will face full accountability under the law.”
No arrests have been made at this time.
Police Chief Brian Harding confirmed the death of a 27-year-old man. The identity of the victim has not been disclosed.
The injured individuals ranged from 19 to 43 years old, according to Mr. Harding.
Summit County Crime Stoppers and the U.S. Marshal’s Service are jointly offering a total of $12,500 in rewards for information that leads to the apprehension of suspects linked to the shooting, Mayor Malik announced.
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“It is imperative that we hold individuals accountable for acts of violence. This is the only way to ensure the safety of our communities,” he emphasized.
Police have indicated that the investigation is still in its early stages and are urging anyone with relevant information to contact detectives.
At the scene of the outdoor gathering where the shooting occurred, investigators discovered two handguns and over 35 bullet shell casings, Mr. Harding revealed.
Reports indicated that multiple individuals had been struck by gunfire. Local hospitals notified emergency dispatchers that individuals were arriving at their emergency departments with gunshot wounds shortly after the incident.
Capt. Michael Miller, a public information officer for the Akron police, stated on Sunday morning that there were a total of 25 victims, including one fatality. Mr. Miller later confirmed on Sunday afternoon that at least two of the wounded victims were in critical condition, while others had non-life-threatening injuries.
According to WEWS-TV, a street party was underway in the vicinity before the shooting occurred. An unidentified witness at the scene informed the station that hundreds of individuals were enjoying themselves, with everyone wearing white T-shirts and “women dancing on top of vehicles.”
