On January 4, 2024, 22-year-old Alexander LaShaun Gurley was found deceased with multiple gunshot wounds in the 3300 block of East Overlook Road in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. Gurley, a resident of Bedford Heights, was an entrepreneur who had established his own clothing brand, "LaShaun Alexander." He was also known for his community involvement, including assisting individuals experiencing homelessness.
In November 2022, he adopted a golden retriever puppy named "Ghost," whom he affectionately referred to as his son.
Following the incident, the Cleveland Heights Police Department identified 20-year-old Joseph Byron Littlejohn of East Cleveland as a suspect. An arrest warrant was issued for Littlejohn on charges of aggravated murder and aggravated robbery. Authorities considered him armed and dangerous and linked him to another aggravated robbery in the same area just hours before Gurley's death. Investigators suggested that the motive for Gurley's murder might have been robbery, potentially connected to his business activities conducted through social media platforms.
On January 16, 2024, Littlejohn surrendered to the Cleveland Heights Police Department, where he was booked on charges of aggravated murder and aggravated robbery. The investigation remained active, with police believing that additional individuals were involved in the crime. The city and police department offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to further arrests or the identification of other suspects. Community members with pertinent information were encouraged to contact the Cleveland Heights Police Department's Detective Bureau or Crime Stoppers of Cuyahoga County.
The tragic loss of Alexander Gurley, a young entrepreneur and community advocate, deeply affected his family and the Cleveland Heights community. His commitment to his clothing brand and his efforts to support those in need left a lasting impact on those who knew him. The ongoing investigation aimed to bring all responsible parties to justice and provide closure to Gurley's grieving family and friends.
