In the early Sunday morning of June 2, 2024, a block party in Akron, Ohio was abruptly transformed into a horrific scene of violence when a mass shooting occurred, leaving one dead and injuring 25 more. The shooting took place around midnight in the vicinity of Kelly and 8th Avenues.
Multiple 911 calls prompted the Akron Police Department to respond to reports of gunfire. Concurrently, local hospitals started admitting a significant number of victims suffering from gunshot wounds, a clear indication of the enormity of the incident. Police have confirmed the death of a 27-year-old man, Lateris Cook, while the injured victims are aged between 19 and 43.
Earlier in the evening, around 200 people had attended the party, but the number dwindled when law enforcement arrived due to some complaints. However, by midnight, approximately 100 party-goers had returned. The police speculate that the shots originated from a moving vehicle, with some party attendees retaliating.
Witnesses recounted a scene of abrupt chaos that had initially been a large, festive birthday party. Local resident Jehovah Jones described the unexpected eruption of violence: “We just heard like fireworks. I thought it was the Fourth of July. Then I saw cars, and I saw everybody running. I was petrified. I was scared for my life. I got kids. What if that would have been me?”
Another witness, Joyoux Payne, was particularly shocked by the sudden shift in atmosphere: “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. 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 ringing out. How? Why? That fast.”
Although one firearm and numerous shell casings have been recovered from the scene, no arrests have been made thus far. The motive behind the shooting remains unknown. As the inquiry is in its early stages, the police are appealing to the public for any information that could assist the investigation.
In a joint statement, Akron Mayor Shammas Malik and Police Chief Brian Harding expressed the city’s grief and their commitment to finding answers. “Today, our city is grappling with the aftermath of senseless violence. With over two dozen victims, the pain and trauma affect all of Akron as we seek answers. Our hearts go out to the victims and their families,” they said. “We are committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice and need the community’s help. If you have any information about this tragic shooting, please come forward. You can do so anonymously to help prevent further violence and retaliation.”
The Akron Police Department is urging anyone with information related to the incident to contact their Detective Bureau.
