Read the most recent updates on the June 2 mass shooting here.
One man is dead and 24 others are injured after an early Sunday mass shooting at the intersection of Kelly and 8th avenues in East Akron. The shooting happened during a block party. Akron police are investigating.
Akron Mayor Shammas Malik, along with new Police Chief Brian Harding, released a statement Sunday related to the shooting. They said that the investigation is in its preliminary stages and that more information would be provided as it “becomes available.”
This is a developing story, and Signal Akron reporters and editors are working to bring you updated and accurate information as quickly as possible.
Highlights from City of Akron’s press conference
Updated 7:15 p.m. | By Signal Akron Staff
No suspect.
No vehicle description.
It’s two of the startling details that came out of Sunday evening’s City of Akron press conference — approximately 18 hours after America’s latest mass shooting occurred here.
“No arrests have been made yet, and we have no suspect information to provide,” Akron Police Chief Brian Harding said. “We are imploring the community to come forward with anything that you might know regarding this terrible incident. … We believe there were dozens of people at the party at the time of the shooting, and potentially over 100 people who may have witnessed the incident. Every single person who may have seen something has an obligation to speak up in order to bring those responsible to justice.”
Akron police said the drive-by shooting occurred at an outdoor gathering; victims ranged in age from 19 to 43 (two remain in critical condition); more than one gun was fired on the scene; and onlookers may have fired back at the vehicle.
“All instances of gun violence are tragedies, but the sheer number of victims is shocking and deeply concerning,” Akron Mayor Shammas Malik said. “We can only be thankful that of the 25 individuals who were injured, we did not have more fatalities.”
Like Harding, Malik implored residents to share tips with police.
“Tonight we are calling on our community to get involved,” he said. “There are people out there who know the person or persons involved, and I implore you to speak up. … To everyone who was present at the party at the time of the shooting, we need you to speak with police. You have an obligation to speak with police and help us solve this case.”
Council Member Johnnie Hannah: ‘We’re not reaching the people that are perpetrating this violence’
Updated 3:05 p.m. | By Signal Akron Staff
Ward 5 Council Member Johnnie Hannah spent part of Sunday morning at the site of an overnight shooting in Akron. Hannah expressed frustration with not only the incident but also with local efforts to curb violence.
“We’re not reaching the people that are perpetrating this violence in our community,” he said. “If we’re not reaching the people that are causing and creating havoc, it will never stop.”
Hannah called for fewer people planning “behind desks” and more out in neighborhoods. He believes grassroots efforts, including conversations with violent offenders, could make a difference.
Hannah previously noted gun violence as one of the key issues he planned to address during his term on City Council, including more officers on foot patrol, allowing them to better connect with community members.
Watch the video below to hear more.
Press conference scheduled for Sunday evening
Updated 2:35 p.m. | By Signal Akron Staff
Akron Mayor Shammas Malik, Police Chief Brian Harding and Acting Fire Chief Steven Kaut will hold a press conference Sunday evening at 6:30 p.m., city officials announced. The event is not open to the public. Officials will livestream the press conference.
A glimpse into the crime scene
Updated 2:10 p.m. | By Signal Akron Staff
Signal reporter Doug Brown has been on site in East Akron for the past three hours. Here are some images he’s gathered as he continues to piece the story together.
Council Member Eric Garrett Sr.: ‘We stand with the families affected’
Updated 1:22 p.m. | By Signal Akron Staff
In a post, At-large Akron City Council Member Eric Garrett Sr. said the community is in “shock and mourning.” He also said there is a need for “sensible gun legislation.”
“My heart goes out to the victims and their families during this incredibly difficult time. This senseless act of violence has left our community in shock and mourning. We stand with the families affected and commit to providing all necessary support.
“I urge everyone in our community to remain calm and united. … This heartbreaking incident highlights the need for comprehensive and sensible gun legislation. … We must find a balance that respects the rights of responsible gun owners while prioritizing the safety of our communities.”
U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes: ‘senseless act of violence’
Updated 1 p.m. | By Signal Akron Staff
In a statement, U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes said she was devastated to learn of the shooting.
“My heart and prayers are with the victims, their families, and our entire community who are attempting to make sense of a senseless act of violence,” wrote Sykes, who grew up on Akron’s west side and now represents Ohio’s 13th congressional district.
“Our community must work together to keep our neighborhood safe from gun violence.”
Share information with the Akron police
Updated 12:13 p.m. | By Signal Akron Staff
Anybody with information is asked to call the Akron Police Department Detective Bureau at (330) 375-2490 or (330) 375-2TIP (2847).
Mayor Malik, Police Chief Harding release statement on Akron mass shooting
Updated 10:54 a.m. | By Susan Zake
Akron Mayor Shammas Malik, along with new Police Chief Brian Harding, released a statement Sunday related to the overnight shooting in Akron that killed at least one person and injured 24 others.
One dead, 24 injured in mass shooting in Akron
Updated 10:32 a.m. | By wkyc studios
One man is dead and nearly 30 others were injured following an overnight mass shooting at a block party in Akron early Sunday morning.
The Akron Police Department responded to the area of Kelly and 8th avenues for several reports of shots fired shortly.
