In a grim turn of events early Thursday morning, Akron police charged 28-year-old Byron Johnson with murder after a fatal shooting in the Firestone Park neighborhood. The incident, which escalated into a multi-location crime spree, left one man dead, a woman hospitalized, and a community shaken.
The chain of events began at approximately 12:05 a.m. when police responded to reports of a shooting at a residence in the 100 block of East Wilbeth Road. Upon arrival, officers discovered 32-year-old Darnell E. McGrady with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate efforts by emergency responders, McGrady was pronounced dead at the scene at 12:45 a.m.
Authorities determined that McGrady had been at the residence with Johnson and at least one other individual before the fatal encounter. Johnson allegedly shot McGrady and fled the scene in the victim’s vehicle, taking the unidentified accomplice with him.
The stolen car was tracked to a home in the 1000 block of Silvercrest Avenue, where the situation escalated further. Police reports indicate that Johnson forcibly entered the residence and assaulted a 65-year-old woman. The assault reportedly involved Johnson punching the woman several times before stealing an undisclosed amount of money. Investigators noted that Johnson and the victim were known to each other.
Emergency medical services transported the injured woman to Barberton Hospital. She is receiving treatment for non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to recover.
From Silvercrest Avenue, Johnson’s trail led police to a residence in the 500 block of Storer Avenue, where he barricaded himself inside. This act prompted a tense standoff. A 47-year-old man, a 20-year-old male, and a 1-year-old child were safely escorted out of the house before negotiations intensified.
With the assistance of the Akron SWAT team, officers successfully apprehended Johnson without further injury.
In addition to the murder charge related to McGrady’s death, Johnson now faces a litany of additional charges, including aggravated burglary, felonious assault, and motor vehicle theft stemming from the Silvercrest Avenue incident. These charges underscore the gravity of the situation and highlight the broader scope of violence Johnson is accused of committing within a short period.
The Summit County Jail is currently holding Johnson, where he awaits arraignment. Investigators continue to piece together the full timeline and motive behind the spree, while the community grapples with the aftermath of the violence.
This incident adds to the growing concerns over violent crime in Akron. The city’s police department has urged residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity immediately. Community leaders have also called for unity and support for the victims affected by this tragic series of events.
While McGrady’s loved ones mourn his untimely death, the case has drawn significant attention, emphasizing the importance of addressing gun violence and crime prevention. Authorities are working diligently to ensure justice is served and that such incidents are prevented in the future.
This harrowing episode serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the need for collective efforts to build safer communities.