William Heard, 38, was found fatally shot in an alleyway in Cincinnati’s Carthage neighborhood in the early hours of May 5, 2025. Officers from District 4 responded to reports of gunfire in the 100 block of 68th Street around 1:30 a.m. and discovered Heard with multiple gunshot wounds; he was pronounced dead at the scene after life-saving efforts.

The Cincinnati Police Department has opened a homicide investigation. As of this writing, police have not released information about suspects or arrests. The homicide unit is examining evidence, interviewing witnesses, and asking anyone with relevant information to contact them or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.

The shooting has raised safety concerns among Carthage residents and renewed local discussions about crime prevention. If anyone saw or heard anything in the area around 1:30 a.m. on May 5, or has information about Heard’s death, please contact the Cincinnati Police homicide unit or Crime Stoppers.