On July 24, 2023, at approximately 12:40 a.m., Anthony Blackwell, 24, was found fatally shot in his vehicle near the intersection of East 9th Street and Bolivar Road in downtown Cleveland, close to Progressive Field. Responding officers discovered Blackwell unresponsive in the driver's seat of a black sedan, which had come to rest on the sidewalk. The vehicle exhibited multiple bullet holes, and shell casings were found scattered nearby.
Witnesses reported that an unidentified vehicle approached Blackwell's car, and occupants opened fire before fleeing the scene. The Cleveland Division of Police initiated a homicide investigation, seeking two unidentified male suspects in connection with the shooting. Authorities offered a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to arrests.
Despite these efforts, as of now, no arrests have been made, and the suspects remain at large. The investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement urging anyone with information to contact the Cleveland Division of Police or Crime Stoppers of Cuyahoga County.
In the wake of this tragedy, family and friends gathered to honor Anthony Blackwell's life. A visitation was held on August 1, 2023, at Turk Memorial Chapel, followed by a Celebration of Life service on August 2 at Greater Works Church of God in Christ in Cleveland. The community continues to mourn his loss while seeking justice for his untimely death.
