The Summit County Medical Examiner and the Akron Police Department are investigating a shooting that left a 31-year-old man dead and a 35-year-old man injured May 4 at the Noisy Oyster Pub.
Around 8:14 p.m. Monday, Akron police and EMS received a 911 call for multiple shooting victims at the pub located at 1375 N. Portage Path in Akron’s Merriman Valley. Police reported that preliminary information shows that the suspect and victims were inside the establishment when an argument occurred between the suspect and one of the victims.
The situation escalated into a physical altercation before the suspect opened fire and struck both victims.
When first responders arrived on scene, they discovered the first victim, the 31-year-old, with multiple gunshot wounds to the chest. He was transported to Cleveland Clinic Akron General where he later died from his injuries at 8:49 p.m.
The medical examiner will give an update once the victim is positively identified and an autopsy is completed.
The second victim, the 35-year-old, had gunshot wounds to both legs and was transported to the hospital for treatment. His injuries are non-life threatening, police said.
The suspect, 28-year-old Larnell Nealy Jr., fled the scene on foot. Officers immediately began an extensive search of the surrounding area and gathered video footage from multiple nearby residences that captured Nealy getting away. Officers also recovered pieces of clothing they believed Nealy discarded as he fled.
A Summit County Sheriff’s Office K9 unit was deployed to track Nealy, while both APD and Summit County Metro Parks officers utilized drones to provide support during the search.
Around 11:21 p.m., Nealy attempted to turn himself in at the Summit County Jail. He was taken into custody by APD and transported to the Detective Bureau for questioning.
Nealy is being charged with murder and felonious assault and is being held at Summit County Jail.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Akron Police Detective Bureau at 330-375-2490 or 330-375-2TIP. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Summit County Crimestoppers by calling 330-434-COPS or by texting TIPSCO to 274637.
Owners of Noisy Oyster share condolences, announce temporary closure
In a Facebook post, the Noisy Oyster owners responded to the news.
“We are heartbroken following a tragic and unexpected incident that took place during our dinner service last night. Out of respect for those affected, including our staff, guests, and community, we will be temporarily closed as we take time to care for one another and navigate the aftermath of this senseless act of violence. We thank you for your understanding and ask that you keep those affected in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve the loss of a beloved member of our Noisy Oyster community.”
Akron mayor, police chief release statements regarding Noisy Oyster shooting
Akron Mayor Shammas Malik released a statement in response to Monday night’s incident:
“Today, my thoughts are with the victims of this shooting, their loved ones, and all those who were present or impacted by this violence. I want to thank the Akron Police Department for their diligence, coordination, and quick work to locate and take a suspect into custody. Their response reflects the deep commitment our officers have to protecting our residents.”
Akron Police Chief Brian Harding also released a statement:
“Our thoughts are with the victims and their families as they navigate this tragedy. What began as an argument escalated into senseless violence, and that is not acceptable in our community. I want to commend our officers and partner agencies for their efforts and quick response. We will continue to work towards preventing gun violence from impacting our community and holding people accountable for their actions.”
This story has been updated.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: 1 killed, 1 injured in shooting Monday at Noisy Oyster Pub in Akron
Reporting by Alisson Toro-Lagos, Akron Beacon Journal / Akron Beacon Journal
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