Fatal Officer-Involved Shooting in Akron, Ohio Claims Life of 15-Year-Old Jazmir Tucker
A tragic incident unfolded on Thanksgiving night in Akron, Ohio, resulting in the fatal shooting of 15-year-old Jazmir Tucker by an Akron police officer. The Summit County Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed Tucker’s identity.
According to authorities, the incident occurred around 11 p.m. on Thursday in the Sherbondy Hill neighborhood. Two Akron police officers, sitting in a parked patrol car, heard gunshots nearby and exited their vehicle to investigate. They soon encountered Tucker, who was reportedly carrying a loaded firearm. One of the officers discharged their weapon, striking Tucker.
Officers provided immediate first aid before transporting Tucker to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The officer who fired the fatal shot, a five-year veteran of the force, and their partner have been placed on paid administrative leave, following standard protocol.
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) has taken over the case, with findings to be reviewed by the state attorney general’s office before presentation to a Summit County grand jury. Akron Mayor Shammas Malik has urged the community to reserve judgment until all facts are made public.
In the interest of transparency, Mayor Malik announced that body-worn camera footage of the incident would be released within a week. An internal review by the Akron Police Department will also be conducted, with findings to be shared with the police chief and the city’s police auditor.
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about balancing public trust and accountability while determining the circumstances surrounding Tucker’s tragic death.