Shawn Polo Fann Jr., a 30-year-old African American man from Akron, was tragically shot and killed on April 8, 2021, at a McDonald's in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. Fann, who was known as "Polo," worked as an opening manager at the restaurant and was a father of five young children, ranging in age from two to eight. He had been employed at McDonald's for about ten years and was remembered by his family and friends as a loving, funny, and down-to-earth person.
The incident occurred around 1:30
p.m. when Fann was shot in the chest by Christopher Riddick, a 34-year-old coworker who also worked at the McDonald's. Riddick confronted Fann inside the restaurant and then fled the scene, but he was arrested shortly afterward by the police who found him walking nearby with a loaded .40 caliber handgun. Riddick later confessed to the crime, stating that he had an ongoing personal disagreement with Fann and had come to work with the intention of killing him.
The killing was captured on surveillance camera, and Riddick was charged with aggravated murder. He appeared in Stow Municipal Court the following day and was held on a $1 million bond. The case was later bound over to Summit County Court. Fann was taken to Summa Akron City Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The tragic incident deeply affected the McDonald's staff and customers, as well as Fann's family, who described him as a hardworking and caring father. The family has since relied on their faith and each other to cope with the loss, and they have received support from the McDonald's owner, who offered to put a memorial in the lobby in remembrance of Fann.
The motive behind the murder remained under investigation, but it was clear that Riddick had a specific reason for targeting Fann. The family has expressed a desire for justice and has called for Riddick to be held accountable for his actions.
In summary, Shawn Polo Fann Jr.'s death was a senseless and tragic event that shook the community of Cuyahoga Falls. His memory lives on through his family and the support they have received from those who knew and loved him.
