On December 9, 2023, 20-year-old Chyann "ChyChy" Alissa Gruber was found deceased on Old McCartney Road in Youngstown, Ohio, having suffered multiple gunshot wounds. The Mahoning County Coroner's Office confirmed her identity and ruled her death a homicide.
Chyann was a 2022 graduate of East High School and served as the Youth Coordinator at The Persayus Way Project, engaging actively in community initiatives. She also worked as an activity aide at Continuing Health Care of Boardman.
Known for her outgoing and energetic personality, she cherished time with her niece, "Lailai," and enjoyed cooking, drawing, dancing, and socializing with loved ones.
In response to her death, Youngstown Police Captain Jason Simon stated that authorities have "persons of interest or suspects in mind" for this and two other homicides that occurred around the same time. However, as of December 14, 2023, no arrests had been made in connection with Chyann's case. Police have indicated that the incidents do not appear to be related.
Chyann is survived by her father, Charles Gruber Sr.; siblings Charles Jr., Cleveland, Christopher, Chrishelle, and Caliya Gruber; her cherished niece, Alaiah Wright; nephew, Ziaire Dotson; and grandmothers, Taryn Watkins and Gloria Hightower. She was preceded in death by her mother, Shayla Watkins. Funeral services were held on December 19, 2023, at New Bethel Baptist Church.
The investigation into Chyann's death remains ongoing. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Youngstown Police Department to assist in bringing those responsible to justice.
