Tragedy struck for the second time this summer on a Summit County freeway as a driver fell victim to a fatal shooting, resulting in the closure of I-77 northbound in Green.
The incident unfolded on Thursday evening at approximately 6:15 p.m., when Summit County sheriff’s dispatchers received a distressing 911 call reporting a shooting on Interstate 77 near mile-marker 117, according to an official press release from the sheriff’s office.
Upon investigation, authorities revealed that the assailant, a passenger in a pickup truck, discharged multiple rounds from a handgun into a black Lincoln SUV while both vehicles were traveling southbound on I-77. The driver of the Lincoln SUV sustained multiple gunshot wounds, causing the vehicle to veer across the median and into the northbound lanes of I-77.
The out-of-control Lincoln SUV subsequently collided with a Mercedes in the northbound lanes. Emergency responders from the Green Fire Department arrived at the scene and transported both the Lincoln’s driver and the Mercedes’ driver to Summa Akron City Hospital for urgent medical attention. The driver of the Lincoln succumbed to their injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital, as stated in the press release.
Meanwhile, the shooter and the pickup truck involved in the incident managed to flee the area before authorities arrived. Law enforcement officials are now appealing to the public for assistance in solving the case. Individuals with any information related to the shooting are urged to contact the Detective Bureau at 330-630-6317.
In the wake of the tragic event, the northbound lanes of I-77 have been closed at Lauby Road, causing significant traffic disruptions. Furthermore, southbound traffic on I-77 is currently limited to one lane at the Graybill Road overpass. Motorists are advised to exercise caution and seek alternative routes to avoid the affected areas.
Authorities are actively working to gather evidence, analyze the crime scene, and apprehend the suspects responsible for this senseless act of violence.