TOLEDO, Ohio — A peaceful summer afternoon in South Toledo turned tragic on Friday when gunfire erupted in a residential neighborhood, leaving 17-year-old Jaycieon Bennett dead and an adult woman injured. The shooting occurred in the 400 block of Baden Street, near South Avenue, just east of the Anthony Wayne Trail.
Toledo police responded shortly before 5 p.m. after reports of shots fired at a vehicle. Inside the car were three occupants—two of whom were struck by gunfire. Jaycieon Bennett was pronounced dead at the scene before medical personnel could intervene. The woman, whose identity has not been released, was rushed to the hospital and is expected to recover, according to Toledo Police Lt. Dan Gerken.
No suspects have been apprehended, and detectives have launched a homicide investigation as they search for answers.
A Life Taken Too Soon
Jaycieon Bennett’s death adds to the heartbreaking toll of gun violence affecting Toledo’s youth and communities nationwide. Neighbors and loved ones are struggling with the loss of a promising young life.
“He was just a kid,” one neighbor said. “To hear a 17-year-old was shot right here in our neighborhood—it’s devastating.”
Another resident, speaking anonymously, shared her empathy as a mother who has faced similar loss: “There’s no healing from something like this. It changes your life forever.”
Rising Gun Violence Concerns
Jaycieon Bennett is among three victims of deadly shootings in Toledo between July 4 and the morning of July 5. These incidents have heightened concerns about the growing violence in the city, especially among young people.
Police are reviewing nearby surveillance footage and conducting witness interviews as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities encourage anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward.
Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling or texting Crime Stoppers at 419-255-1111. Informants may be eligible for a cash reward.
Calls for Peace and Action
The shooting has sparked renewed calls from community leaders and activists demanding peace and stronger action to address gun violence.
“It’s the same story, different name,” said a local youth advocate. “How many more kids have to die before this crisis is treated like the emergency it is?”
Plans are underway for a vigil in Jaycieon’s honor, as the community rallies for justice and healing.
As Toledo mourns yet another young life lost to gun violence, questions remain about when this cycle of tragedy will end.
If you have information about this case, please contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 419-255-1111.