Youngstown Community in Shock After Homicide on West Side; 14-Year-Old Charged in Shooting Death of Keondre Lewis
Youngstown, OH – The Youngstown community is grappling with the devastating news of a fatal shooting that took place on Sunday afternoon, claiming the life of Keondre Lewis. The incident, which occurred on Rhoda Avenue, just north of Mahoning Avenue, has led to the arrest of a 14-year-old suspect, identified as Willie Wilkes, now facing a murder charge with a firearm specification.
Tragic Scene Unfolds on Rhoda Avenue
Youngstown Police officers responded to a call around 2 p.m. on Sunday regarding a homicide at a home on Rhoda Avenue. Upon arrival, officers discovered Keondre Lewis lying in the dining room with a gunshot wound to the head. Emergency responders rushed Lewis to the hospital, but despite medical efforts, he tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Juvenile Suspect Arrested in Connection with the Shooting
Lieutenant Mohammad Awad confirmed to 21 News that a 14-year-old suspect had been arrested in connection with the homicide. Court documents have identified the suspect as Willie Wilkes, who now faces a murder charge, along with a three-year firearm specification. Given the severity of the charges and the young age of the suspect, legal proceedings will determine whether Wilkes will be tried as a juvenile or as an adult.
A Community Stunned by Violence
The tragic death of Keondre Lewis has sent shockwaves through the Youngstown community, as many struggle to comprehend how a dispute could escalate to such a deadly outcome involving a juvenile suspect. This heartbreaking incident underscores the ongoing issues of gun violence and youth involvement in crime, leaving many residents calling for stricter firearm regulations and greater intervention programs for at-risk youth.
Community members have taken to social media to express their sorrow and frustration, with some organizing vigils and discussions on how to address youth violence in the city.
What Comes Next?
As the investigation continues, Youngstown authorities are working to piece together the events that led to this tragic shooting. Detectives are still gathering evidence and witness statements to determine what exactly transpired before the fatal gunshot was fired.
Wilkes is expected to appear in juvenile court, but given the seriousness of the charges, prosecutors may seek to have him tried as an adult.
The death of Keondre Lewis is a stark reminder of the impact of violence in communities, and many are hoping for justice for the victim and meaningful action to prevent further tragedies.
Remembering Keondre Lewis
While details about Keondre Lewis remain limited, those who knew him describe him as a young man with promise, whose life was tragically cut short far too soon. His family, friends, and loved ones now mourn his loss, seeking answers and justice in the wake of this senseless act of violence.
As Youngstown processes this heartbreaking event, one message rings clear: the community must come together to ensure that tragedies like this do not continue to claim the lives of its youth.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information regarding this case to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.