Markis R. Hopkins, a 16-year-old African American male from Canton, Ohio, tragically lost his life on September 18, 2021. He was a student at Passages High School, an alternative program for students at risk of not graduating. Markis was fatally shot in the chest during a police chase involving two stolen vehicles. The incident occurred in the 400 block of W.C.
Henderson Avenue NE, formerly known as Gibbs Avenue NE.
The chase began when police were called to the scene in response to a shooting. Officers found Markis lying in the grass, suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The stolen vehicles involved in the chase were a gray 2017 Ford Fusion and a maroon Chrysler minivan. The Ford Fusion had been stolen from the owner's home in Plain Township, and the minivan had been reported stolen from Jackson Township.
Witnesses told police that three people, including Markis, had run from the Ford Fusion, leaving it in the road. The minivan was seen chasing the Ford Fusion, and someone inside the minivan was shooting at the car before speeding away. Police found a .22-caliber handgun in the Ford Fusion. Despite the ongoing investigation, no arrests have been made, and the motive for the shooting remains unknown.
The tragic death of Markis R. Hopkins has left his family, friends, and community in mourning. His loved ones remember him as a charismatic, cheerful, and intelligent young man with a charming smile. The investigation into his death continues, and authorities are working to determine the circumstances and individuals responsible for this senseless act of violence.
