On Sunday, June 2, 2024, just after midnight, a block party in Akron, Ohio turned deadly when a mass shooting occurred, killing one person and injuring 25 others. The violence broke out near the intersection of Kelly Avenue and 8th Avenue.
Several 911 calls reporting gunfire prompted the Akron Police Department to respond, while local hospitals simultaneously started receiving numerous victims suffering from gunshot injuries. Lateris Cook, a 27-year-old man, was confirmed dead by the police. The age of the injured victims spans from 19 to 43 years old.
The party, which had approximately 200 attendees earlier in the evening, had thinned out somewhat when police were first called. However, around midnight, about 100 partygoers had returned. It’s believed that gunfire originated from a moving vehicle, with return fire coming from individuals at the party.
Witnesses recounted a scene of confusion and fear from what had begun as a vibrant birthday celebration. One resident, Jehovah Jones, remembered the shocking onset of the 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?”
Joyoux Payne, another party attendee, was similarly stunned by the abrupt shift from celebration to chaos: “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.”
While the police have recovered a firearm and numerous shell casings from the scene, no arrests have yet been made, and the shooting’s motive is still unknown. The investigation is in its early stages, with authorities appealing for anyone with information to step forward.
Akron’s Mayor Shammas Malik, together with Police Chief Brian Harding, shared a joint statement expressing the city’s grief and 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 stated. “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.”
