AKRON, Ohio — A late-night party in Akron turned deadly on Sunday when a drive-by shooting left one person dead and two dozen injured. The incident occurred around midnight at a residence on Kelly Avenue, according to local law enforcement officials.
The assailant reportedly targeted a crowd of people gathered at the residence. In the ensuing chaos, a 27-year-old man was killed, and two other victims were critically injured. The identities of the victims have not been released.
The Akron Police Department confirmed the details of the violent encounter during a press conference. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Mayor Malik and Chief Brian Harding released a joint statement saying:
“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.”
The incident comes amid a heated debate over gun control in Ohio. Several Democratic lawmakers have proposed what they call “common sense reforms.” However, every attempt to pass gun control legislation has been blocked by Representative Bob Peterson.
Peterson, who chairs a key committee, has vowed to kill any bill related to gun control, according to a lawmaker who spoke to the Guardian. The representative’s stance has drawn criticism from those advocating for stricter gun laws.