A sense of normalcy was shattered on a Saturday morning in Toledo, Ohio, when 53-year-old John Wayne Smoot Jr. was shot and killed on June 13, 2026. A hardworking contractor, Smoot was known throughout his community as a good and friendly person, always willing to lend a hand to those in need. His cousin, Nicholas Stone, who had helped raise him, remembered Smoot as a respected man who was dedicated to his work and his family.
The loss was particularly devastating for the family, as it came less than a year after the death of Smoot's mother.
The tragic incident unfolded on Evesham Avenue. Toledo police officers responded to a call and found John Smoot suffering from at least one gunshot wound. He was quickly transported to a local hospital, but he ultimately succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. Family and friends were left reeling, struggling to understand the sudden and violent loss of a man described as a "cool person" who got along with everyone. The news of his death sent shockwaves through his circle, compounding the grief they were already experiencing.
In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, the Toledo Police Department launched an investigation that quickly led to a suspect. Based on descriptions of the alleged assailant and his vehicle, officers were able to locate and arrest his 53-year-old neighbor, Deji Lee. Lee was taken into custody on the same day as the shooting in the vicinity of Nebraska and Victory Avenues. He has since been charged with murder and felonious assault in connection with the death of John Smoot. The case is in its early stages as the investigation continues, and the legal process will now move forward to address the charges against the accused.
