Dontez Lilly, a 38-year-old resident of Lakewood, Ohio, tragically lost his life on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, in Cleveland. Lilly was found lying in the street with numerous gunshot wounds in the 3200 block of Archwood Avenue, located in the Clark-Fulton neighborhood. The incident occurred after what police believe was an argument between Lilly and another individual moments before the shooting took place.
The case quickly gained attention from local law enforcement, leading to a swift investigation. On July 5, 2024, approximately two weeks after the incident, authorities made a significant breakthrough in the case. Jasmine Spencer, a 27-year-old Cleveland woman, was arrested in connection with Lilly's murder. Spencer faces a charge of aggravated murder for the shooting death of Dontez Lilly.
The arrest was carried out through a collaborative effort between the U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) and the Cleveland Division of Police. Early on the morning of July 5, a warrant was issued for Jasmine Spencer, and the investigation was subsequently handed over to the NOVFTF. Spencer was apprehended without incident at an apartment in the 3700 block of West 33rd Street, notably within a neighboring apartment building to where Lilly's body was discovered.
U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott commended the dedication of the Cleveland Division of Police in ensuring justice for victims and their families through their thorough investigations. He also highlighted the strong partnership between the task force and local law enforcement in apprehending suspects in fugitive cases. The arrest of Jasmine Spencer marks a significant development in the case, bringing hope for justice to Dontez Lilly's family and the community affected by this tragic event.
