Deontae D. Henderson, a 24-year-old African American male from Akron, OH, tragically passed away on June 28, 2017. He was fatally shot outside his Sumner Street home. Investigators determined that Antonio Poole, a 17-year-old at the time, lured Henderson outside before shooting him in the head. Henderson was transported to Summa Akron City Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Following the incident, Antonio Poole was arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter with a gun
specification and having a weapon under disability. Poole initially faced charges of aggravated murder and murder, but he eventually pleaded guilty to the lesser charges. In May 2019, Poole was sentenced to 12 years in prison for his role in Henderson's death. The judge noted the challenges of the case, including Poole's age and learning disabilities, but ultimately decided on a significant prison term.
The case drew significant attention in Akron, with Henderson's family expressing their grief and frustration throughout the legal proceedings. The community also reacted strongly to the sentencing, with tensions running high between the families of Henderson and Poole. Despite the legal resolution, Henderson's family continues to mourn the loss of their loved one and the impact his death has had on their lives.
