On the morning of August 30, 2024, 18-year-old Ahsan Lamar Simmons was found deceased in the 3700 block of Reading Road near Burton Avenue in Cincinnati's North Avondale neighborhood. Responding to reports of an unresponsive individual around 7:35 a.m., police discovered Simmons with a gunshot wound to his back; he was pronounced dead at the scene.
This incident marked the second shooting on the same block within a 12-hour span. The previous evening, a man in his 30s suffered a gunshot wound to the chest in the same area and was hospitalized in serious condition. Authorities detained a suspect for questioning in that case, but no arrests were reported.
As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with Simmons' death, and police have not released information regarding potential suspects. The Cincinnati Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. They urge anyone with information to contact the Homicide Unit at 513-352-3542.
Simmons, affectionately known as Hassan, was a Cincinnati native who attended the Dr. O'dell Owens Center for Learning. He enjoyed rap music, video games, taking walks, and spending time with family. Recently, he began his first job at a Mexican restaurant, where his cheerful demeanor and contagious smile left a lasting impression. His name, meaning "the best" or "most handsome," reflected his calm and handsome nature. He is survived by his parents, Michael Simmons and Lorna Cave, as well as several siblings, nieces, nephews, and extended family.
The community mourns the loss of a young man whose life was tragically cut short. Authorities continue to seek leads to bring justice for Simmons and his family.