Tragic Loss in Westwood: 17-Year-Old Jayshawn Cornelius Fatally Shot in Overnight Home Shooting
CINCINNATI, OH — A tight-knit community is reeling after the tragic and senseless death of a teenager early Tuesday morning. 17-year-old Jayshawn Cornelius, a student at Hughes High School, was fatally shot inside his Westwood home in the early hours of June 3, a devastating event that has sent waves of grief through his school, neighborhood, and the city at large.
The shooting occurred around 1:30 a.m. at a residence on Percy Avenue. Authorities were alerted to the incident by ShotSpotter, an advanced gunshot detection system used by law enforcement to respond quickly to firearm-related incidents. Upon arrival, officers with the Cincinnati Police Department found Jayshawn suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He had been struck three times.
Emergency responders rushed to provide aid, but despite their best efforts, Jayshawn was pronounced dead at the scene. The teen’s life was cut tragically short just weeks before summer break—a time that should have been filled with promise, not mourning.
A Promising Young Life Taken Too Soon
Jayshawn Cornelius was known among classmates and teachers at Hughes High School for his energy, humor, and the potential he carried. The Cincinnati Public Schools district confirmed his identity and expressed its deepest condolences to his family and school community. Grief counselors have been made available to students and staff, and a memorial space is being created at the school for those wishing to honor his memory.
“Jayshawn had a spark,” said one teacher. “He made people laugh, and he brought light into the room. He deserved a future that was taken from him in an instant.”
Investigation and Suspect Identified
According to police, early findings indicate that the gunfire came from outside the home, with bullets fired through the front of the house, striking Jayshawn as he was inside. Investigators have since identified a suspect: Donald Jones. While no motive has been officially released, police are working diligently to apprehend Jones and urge anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward.
This type of violence—shooting into an occupied home—is particularly alarming for authorities, as it demonstrates a reckless disregard for human life and the safety of innocent people.
Community Reaction: Grief, Anger, and Demands for Change
The Westwood neighborhood has been rocked by the shooting, with neighbors expressing sorrow, fear, and frustration over rising gun violence, especially involving youth.
“We are tired,” said a local resident. “We are tired of burying our kids. Tired of these tragedies. This has to stop.”
A vigil for Jayshawn is being planned by community leaders and local clergy, offering a space for reflection, solidarity, and calls for peace. Anti-violence organizations are also stepping in, offering resources to families affected by gun violence and pushing for preventive measures to keep more youth safe.
Call to Action
As the investigation continues, Cincinnati Police are urging anyone with information on the whereabouts of Donald Jones or details related to the shooting to contact CPD’s Homicide Unit at 513-352-3542. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 513-352-3040 or online
Final Thoughts
The death of Jayshawn Cornelius is not just another statistic—it’s a profound loss felt across his school, his family, and an entire city grappling with grief. He was a son, a student, a friend—a young man with dreams that will never be fulfilled. As his loved ones mourn, Cincinnati must come together not only to seek justice for Jayshawn but to prevent other families from experiencing such heartbreak in the future.
Rest in peace, Jayshawn. Your light will not be forgotten.