Owen Matthew Barzal was a 19-year-old from Akron, Ohio, who was shot to death on October 12, 2021. He enjoyed mountain biking, kayaking and skateboarding and was described as an aspiring entrepreneur; his death deeply affected his family and friends.

Police say Barzal was lured to a location on Bernice Street by Christopher Blue, also 19 and from Akron. Barzal was shot in the back while in his car and his body was later found in the backseat. Investigators recovered Blue’s phone in Barzal’s car; it reportedly contained Snapchat messages asking Barzal to come to Akron. Blue’s DNA was reportedly found on the murder weapon, which was recovered from Blue’s home.

Blue was arrested after a standoff with police at his residence on Russell Avenue and was charged in connection with the killing.

If anyone knew Owen, saw him on October 12, 2021, or has information about the Bernice Street location, please come forward.