[Editor’s note: This article has been updated to reflect that 25 people were shot, which changed based on updated information from authorities.]
AKRON, Ohio (WJW) — Akron police are investigating an overnight shooting in which 25 people were injured, one of whom died.
Several 911 callers reported shots being fired just after midnight in the area of Kelly and 8th avenues, police said Sunday.
Akron officials — including Mayor Shammas Malik, Police Chief Brian Harding and Acting Fire Chief Steven Kaut — gave a media briefing Sunday evening, imploring the community to come forward.
The shooting reportedly took place at a birthday party. Officials arrived on scene around 10 p.m. for a noise complaint, where about 200 people were dispersed. Between that time and midnight, after police had left, about 100 people were believed to have gathered again.
“Tonight we are calling on our community to get involved … I implore you to speak up,” Malik said during the press conference, explaining a reward is also being offered to anyone who gives pertinent information that leads to an arrest. The reward is now up to $22,500 with the help of the U.S. Marshalls Office (up to $7,500), Summit County Crimestoppers ($5,000) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives ($10,000) together.
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Area hospitals reported numerous patients coming into emergency departments with gunshot wounds. As of Sunday evening, Akron police have tallied at least 25 victims, including a 27-year-old man who has died. His identity has still not been released.
Officials said two of the victims were in critical condition, while others suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
Cleveland Clinic Akron General hospital received nine shooting patients, one of whom remains in critical condition, said hospital spokesperson Joe Milicia.
Summa Health System hospitals received 15 patients following the shooting, most of whom suffered non-life-threatening injuries, said spokesperson Michael Bernstein. One person remains in critical condition, while many others have been discharged or are preparing to be discharged, he said.
Officers recovered two firearms (which were not identified) and several dozen shell casings from the scene, according to officials. The investigation is in its early stages. Police offered no other information about the victims or suspects.
No arrests have been made and officials said they do not have a motive at this time.
Akron Mayor Shammas Malik and Police Chief Brian Harding released a statement on Sunday morning:
“This morning, 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,” he said.
“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. This can be done anonymously.”
Anyone who can offer information on the investigation is urged to call Akron detectives at 330-375-2490 or 330-375-2TIP (330-375-2847).
Anonymous tips can also be provided by:
Akron Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7 President Brian Lucey shared his concerns with the FOX 8 I-Team following the mass shooting.
“We can always use more police officers, specifically front-line patrol officers,” Lucey said. “And as for the violence in the city, proactive policing, such as traffic stops and suspicious person stops, is the only thing that will slow it down.”
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