A community is in mourning and questions abound after the fatal shooting of Andrew J. Cassell in Middlebury, prompting an active homicide investigation by the Summit County Medical Examiner’s Office in conjunction with the Akron Police Department.
Andrew J. Cassell, whose life was cut short in the tragic incident, has been formally identified by the medical examiner’s office. Authorities responded to reports of gunfire in the Middlebury neighborhood, an area of Akron that has seen a troubling rise in gun-related violence in recent years. First responders arrived at the scene to find Cassell suffering from critical gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead shortly after.
According to preliminary findings released by the Summit County Medical Examiner, Cassell died as a result of multiple gunshot wounds, confirming what police are treating as a homicide. Investigators have been canvassing the area for witnesses and surveillance footage, though no arrests had been made at the time of this report. Detectives are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.
The circumstances leading up to the shooting remain unclear. Police have not released details about a possible motive or whether Cassell knew his assailant. Residents of the Middlebury neighborhood have expressed concern and sorrow following the incident, describing the area as one that has struggled with periodic violence but also tight-knit community ties. Cassell’s death has left a painful void for those who knew him.
Friends and family have begun to share tributes to Cassell on social media, remembering him as a kind-hearted individual with deep connections in the Akron community. He is being mourned not only as a victim of violence but as someone whose presence was deeply felt by those around him.
“We’re devastated,” said one family member. “He didn’t deserve this. He was loved, and he had so much more life ahead of him.”
The Akron Police Department has assured the public that they are dedicating significant resources to solve this case. In a statement, the department reaffirmed its commitment to bringing those responsible to justice and called for cooperation from the public to aid their efforts. Community activists are also calling for renewed attention to gun violence prevention in neighborhoods like Middlebury, emphasizing that systemic changes are needed to curb the cycle of violence.
As the investigation continues, the community awaits answers—and justice—for Andrew J. Cassell. A memorial vigil is being planned by local residents to honor his life and to stand in solidarity against the rising tide of violence that has affected so many families across the city.
Anyone with information regarding the shooting is encouraged to contact the Akron Police Department Detective Bureau or submit anonymous tips through Summit County Crime Stoppers.
