Akron, Ohio’s Mayor Shammas Malik, says city reeling after senseless shooting that killed one and injured many

One person was killed and 24 others were injured in a shooting early Sunday, June 2, 2024, in Akron, Ohio, CNN reported, citing city officials.

According to a statement from the city’s mayor, US-born Shammas Malik, of part- Pakistani descent, officers responded to 911 calls shortly after shots were reported and multiple victims were hit. The statement is posted on the police website at akronohio.gov/newslist.php#Home.

The statement said, “Just after midnight Sunday, June 2, the Akron Police Department 911 center received several calls regarding shots being fired in the area of Kelly Ave. and 8th Ave. with multiple victims being reported as struck. Officers were immediately dispatched and responded to the area. Shortly after those calls came in, the dispatch center received notifications from local hospitals that multiple persons were arriving in the emergency departments with gunshot wounds. In total, there are 25 gunshot victims, including one confirmed fatality. The investigation is in its preliminary stages and more information will be provided as it becomes available. No further suspect or victim information is available at this time.”

In their joint statement, Mayor Malik and Police Chief Brian Harding 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.”

Malik and Harding added, “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.”

In a statement to CNN, the hospital said that seven patients with gunshot wounds were admitted to Cleveland Clinic Akron General for treatment, with one person in critical condition.
Summa Health System-Akron Campus received 15 patients, CNN reported, citing spokesperson Mike Bernstein’s statement. Of those patients, one was dead on arrival, another person is in critical condition and 13 others sustained non-life-threatening injuries, according to Bernstein. He said that several people who were injured were in the process of being discharged around 4:30 am (local time).

“Today, and in the days ahead, we will share more information about this horrific incident,” the Mayor and Police Chief said in their statement, adding, “Our city and our Akron Police Department will continue to prioritize public safety as our number one concern as we aim to end gun violence in our community.”

Anyone with information was encouraged to call the Akron Police Department Detective Bureau at 330-375-2490 or 330-375-2Tip. Citizens could also provide anonymous information to any of the following: The Summit County Crimestoppers, call 330-434-COPS; Text TIPSCO with your tips to 274637.