Zahir Montez Garrett, a 25-year-old male of African American ethnicity from Cleveland, tragically lost his life on January 5, 2022, in Bedford Heights, Ohio. Garrett was shot in the back of the head during an incident at his ex-girlfriend Eytae France's apartment. The bullet not only killed Garrett but also lodged in France's body, causing her serious injuries.
Garrett was taken to Hillcrest Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The suspect in this case, Bernard Walter Lewis Lonnie Sparks, was arrested after an extensive manhunt. Sparks, who was 33 years old at the time, was wanted on multiple charges, including aggravated murder, attempted murder, aggravated burglary, and felonious assault. Sparks allegedly broke into France's apartment in the middle of the night, woke her up, and proceeded to shoot Garrett. After the shooting, Sparks fled the scene and remained a fugitive for approximately eight months before being apprehended by U.S. Marshals.
In the aftermath of the incident, Sparks was indicted on 17 counts, including two counts of aggravated murder, four counts of aggravated burglary, four counts of kidnapping, one count of attempted aggravated murder, four counts of felonious assault, one count of murder, and one count of having weapons while under disability. Sparks eventually pled guilty to attempted aggravated murder, murder, and having weapons while under disability. The court sentenced him to consecutive sentences for his crimes.
The tragic death of Zahir Montez Garrett and the subsequent legal proceedings against Bernard Walter Lewis Lonnie Sparks have brought significant attention to issues of gun violence and domestic violence in the Bedford Heights area. The case has also highlighted the importance of swift and effective law enforcement responses to such incidents.
Garrett's family and friends have expressed their grief and called for justice in the wake of his untimely death. The community continues to seek answers and support as they navigate the aftermath of this devastating event.
