Jovontai Highsmith, a 32-year-old Black man, was found fatally shot inside a vehicle in North Toledo on April 7, 2025. Officers arrived after a report of a person shot at about 11:42 p.m. in the 900 block of Peck Street and discovered Highsmith with gunshot wounds; emergency responders pronounced him dead shortly thereafter.

An autopsy at the Lucas County Coroner’s Office on April 8, 2025, determined he died of multiple gunshot wounds to the head, neck, and chest and officially ruled the death a homicide. Authorities have not released details about any arrests or named suspects. Highsmith’s obituary and planned funeral services at the House of Day Funeral Services Chapel note the deep sorrow felt by his family and friends.

Investigators continue to probe the circumstances of the killing, and community members have expressed concern about violence in the area. If anyone has information about what happened on Peck Street that night, please come forward.