Lavante Perry, a 24-year-old male from Youngstown, OH, tragically died on December 11, 2019. He was found shot to death in a home on Woodcrest Avenue. The Mahoning County Coroner's Office identified him as the victim, and an autopsy was performed by the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office to determine the cause and manner of death. The investigation into his death was conducted by the Youngstown Police Department.
Perry was involved in a series of violent incidents leading up to
his death. In January 2019, he pleaded guilty to felonious assault in connection with the death of Crystal Hernandez, 24, who was fatally shot while shielding her 2-year-old son during a shooting incident. Perry and Gabriel Smith, 20, were accused of shooting at the men charged with Hernandez's killing. The initial shootings were reportedly over stolen drugs and money.
Six suspects were charged with aggravated murder, murder, and conspiracy in connection with Hernandez's death. These suspects included Burton McGee, Martize Daniels, Larenz Rhodes, Maurice Redrick, Marquis Torres, and Joquan Blair. Smith and Perry faced additional charges of felonious assault. Smith pleaded guilty to the charge and was scheduled to be sentenced in October 2019.
Perry's death occurred just before he was scheduled to be sentenced for his involvement in the January shooting. The court continued his case, delaying sentencing. The investigation into his death remains ongoing, with Youngstown police continuing to gather evidence and pursue leads.
Lavante Perry's death has left a significant impact on his family and community. He was remembered as a youth coach and someone who enjoyed playing video games, fishing, football, and shooting at the gun range. He is survived by his children, Elijah and Dai-Jon Perry, and his siblings, Charles and Isaiah Perry.
The tragic circumstances surrounding Lavante Perry's death highlight the devastating consequences of violence and the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in addressing such incidents.
