Keion LaShawn DeGrate obituary , death, 21, of Akron, Ohio, Fatally Shot in Patterson Park; Investigation Ongoing as Police Seek Information and Connection to Fleeing Vehicle; Community Urged to Come Forward with Tips
A 21-year-old man who was shot and killed in Patterson Park on Sunday afternoon has been identified as Keion LaShawn DeGrate of Akron, Ohio. According to the Summit County Medical Examiner, DeGrate was fatally shot around 3 p.m. on December 8.
_Incident Details and Police Response_
Akron police responded to numerous 911 calls about the incident, which were flooding the call center, each reporting hearing more than a dozen gunshots. Some callers also mentioned the possibility of rifle rounds being fired. When officers arrived at the park, located in the 600 block of Lucille Avenue, they discovered DeGrate lying in a grassy area near the basketball courts. Police found that he had been shot multiple times with an assault rifle. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
_Investigation and Evidence Collection_
Investigation efforts led to the discovery of more than 12 assault rifle casings in the area where the shooting occurred. Witnesses told police they saw a vehicle, possibly an SUV, fleeing the scene shortly after the shots were fired. Akron police Captain Michael Miller confirmed that detectives are actively pursuing leads related to the incident and are working to determine the connection between a vehicle they recovered and the person responsible for the shooting.
_Ongoing Investigation and Appeal for Information_
As of now, no arrests have been made, and the investigation into the shooting is ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The Akron Police Department is seeking tips from the public, particularly from those who may have witnessed the incident or have information about the fleeing vehicle.
_Community Reaction and Support_
The fatal shooting of Keion LaShawn DeGrate has sent shockwaves through the community, with many residents expressing concern and sadness over the loss of life. The incident has also sparked a renewed call for community engagement and cooperation with law enforcement to address violence and crime in the area.
_Police and Community Partnership_
The Akron Police Department has emphasized the importance of building trust and partnerships with the community to prevent and solve crimes. The department has urged residents to report any suspicious activity and to provide information that may aid in the investigation.
_Conclusion_
The tragic loss of Keion LaShawn DeGrate serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence and the importance of community engagement and cooperation with law enforcement. As the investigation continues, the community of Akron and surrounding areas mourn the loss of DeGrate and come together to support his loved ones and advocate for a safer and more just society.
