Luis Cuevas, a 33-year-old man from Cleveland, tragically lost his life on June 13, 2021, during a shooting at Dragway 42 in West Salem, Ohio. The incident occurred shortly before the conclusion of the Import Face-Off event, a car show and drag racing series. According to authorities, Cuevas was an innocent bystander who was not involved in the altercation that led to his death.
The shooting began when a man driving a gray pickup truck recklessly in the parking lot was confronted by track officials and other attendees. Witnesses reported that the driver, later identified as Jonathan Paul Roman Perez of Cleveland, began firing multiple rounds from a handgun during the confrontation. In response, another person in the crowd fired back, and a total of around 20 rounds were exchanged. Cuevas was shot at least once and succumbed to his injuries later that day.
Jonathan Paul Roman Perez was arrested and charged with felonious assault in connection with the shooting. He was found at a medical facility recovering from non-life-threatening injuries and was later transported to the Wayne County Jail. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have stated that additional charges and arrests are possible as more evidence is gathered.
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office has been working diligently to piece together the events leading up to the shooting and has received numerous video clips and witness statements that have aided in the investigation. Despite the tragic loss, the community has come together to support Cuevas's family, including the creation of a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses.
The incident has highlighted the importance of safety at public events and the need for continued vigilance to prevent such tragedies in the future. The Wayne County Sheriff's Office remains committed to uncovering the full truth behind the shooting and ensuring that justice is served for Luis Cuevas and his family.
