On December 20, 2023, 16-year-old Eric EJ Scott, a junior and cornerback for Springfield High School’s Blue Devils, was fatally shot near Amsterdam Road and Heathshire Drive in west Toledo. He sustained two gunshot wounds to the torso and was taken by private vehicle to ProMedica Toledo Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The Lucas County Coroner’s Office ruled the death a homicide.

Police say the shooting followed an encounter in a neighborhood after Eric and two friends were driven there by an 18-year-old. According to court documents, the vehicle stopped when it encountered a person Eric reportedly disliked, the three passengers exited and fired multiple rounds, and Eric was struck — detectives believe the shots came from his friends. The driver then moved the truck, brought Eric to the hospital, and he later died. Two suspects were in custody and charged with murder and a third suspect had a murder warrant issued.

Eric’s coach described him as a respected leader; the school superintendent noted his energetic, joyful spirit and love of football. Who in the community might have seen the group that night or has information about the events leading up to the shooting?