On January 10, 2025, Cleveland police found the body of 41-year-old Melton Peoples III in a basement on East 78th Street. The Black male victim had suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the back, and investigators opened a homicide investigation into the circumstances of the shooting.

Authorities identified a suspect in the case as 46-year-old Oturi Germany. U.S. Marshals took Germany into custody in Garfield Heights; at the time of arrest he was already facing felonious assault and weapons charges in two other matters. Reports note Germany has a lengthy criminal history dating to 1998 with prior convictions for drug trafficking, domestic violence, and robbery.

Investigators say Germany was responsible for Peoples’ murder, and evidence gathering and case-building were ongoing. The circumstances leading up to the shooting remain under investigation.

If anyone knew Melton Peoples III, saw activity around East 78th Street on or before January 10, 2025, or has information relevant to the investigation, please come forward.