On January 18, 2025, 16-year-old African American male James R. Thomas Jr. was tragically killed in a shooting in Dayton, Ohio. The incident occurred around 12:57 a.m. in the 900 block of Sherwood Drive. Emergency responders arrived to find James unresponsive with a gunshot wound, and he was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after 1:10 a.m.
James was a student at Trotwood-Madison High School.
His death marked one of several fatal shootings involving teenagers in Dayton in early 2025.
As of May 2025, no arrests have been made in connection with James's death, and no suspects have been publicly identified. The Dayton Police Department continues to investigate the case.
A memorial service for James was held on February 1, 2025, at Thomas Funeral Home & Crematory in Trotwood, Ohio.
