Phillip Lee Harris, a 75-year-old man from Canton, Ohio, was fatally shot late on the night of March 24, 2025, at the Old Landmark Tavern in Canton Township. The incident occurred at approximately 11:46 p.m. at 5224 Ridge Ave. SE. Authorities responded to reports of a violent altercation that escalated into gunfire. Harris was transported to Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital by the Canton Township Fire Department, where he was pronounced dead at 12:32 a.m.
on March 25.
The Stark County Sheriff's Office has classified the case as a homicide. Investigators revealed that the shooting stemmed from a verbal dispute among several patrons at the tavern, which quickly turned physical before shots were fired. A suspect, identified as 26-year-old Samuel D. Shank of Canton, was arrested and charged with murder. Officials have not disclosed further details regarding the motive behind the altercation or any prior connection between Harris and Shank.
Harris, a Caucasian male, was a longtime resident of Canton and had a Chihuahua with him at the time of the incident. The dog was found in his vehicle and is currently in the custody of the Stark County Sheriff's Office. His body has been sent to the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office for an autopsy. Authorities are continuing their investigation and have urged anyone with relevant information to contact the Stark County Sheriff's Office or the Anonymous Crime Tip Line.
