Tyree Deshawn Halsell Jr., a 1-year-old boy from Akron, Ohio, tragically lost his life on August 2, 2020. Tyree was born on November 30, 2018, to Shanticka Johnson and Tyree Halsell Sr. He was described as a sweet, smart, and caring baby who loved to dance and recite the alphabet. His untimely death came as a result of a stray bullet during a shooting incident in East Akron.
The incident occurred when Tyree's grandmother, Wonderous Halsell, was at home with him.
Around 9:30 p.m., a hail of gunfire erupted, and Tyree was struck in the head by a stray bullet. He was rushed to Summa Akron City Hospital but tragically did not survive. Two other adults, Tyree's grandmother Kimberly Thompson and Brian James, were also injured in the shooting but survived.
Following the incident, Akron police launched an investigation. In August 2024, Phillip Mendoza, a 62-year-old man from Akron, was sentenced to nearly two decades in prison for his involvement in the shooting. Mendoza pleaded guilty to several charges, including conspiracy to commit murder and three counts of felonious assault. He was sentenced to 15-20.5 years in prison.
The Halsell family has been vocal about seeking justice for Tyree. Wonderous Halsell, Tyree's grandmother, has expressed her grief and determination to see the person responsible for her grandson's death held accountable. The family continues to mourn the loss of Tyree and hopes for closure and justice.
Tyree's death has left a lasting impact on his family and the community, who remember him as a bright and loving child who had his whole life ahead of him.
