Brandon D’James Colter, 27, a lifelong resident of Akron, Ohio, was shot and killed on May 24, 2023 during an altercation that escalated into violence. The shooting occurred amid a dispute that turned physical and ended with Colter’s death by gunfire.

Investigators quickly identified 27-year-old Kaelyn Smith as the primary suspect. Smith was arrested and charged with murder and felonious assault in connection with the shooting. Colter’s death prompted community conversations about gun violence and conflict de-escalation in Akron, and has had a lasting impact on his family and friends.

If anyone has information about the events leading up to the shooting or knew Brandon, please share what you know with local investigators.