Kevin King

Kevin King, a 39-year-old Black man from Cleveland, Ohio, was a father of four cherished children who was known for his kind heart and generous spirit. To his family and friends, he was "Coodie" or "Royal." His mother, Kimberley King, remembered him as having a special gift for understanding how things worked, even as a toddler. He grew into an exceptional chef who loved to cook for people, who came from near and far for his taco bake or Mexican cornbread. He was also generous, once allowing a friend with nowhere to go to pitch a tent in his yard.

On the evening of Sunday, December 22, 2019, just a few days before Christmas, Kevin was at his home on Auburndale Avenue. He had spent part of the day with his mother and was now decorating a Christmas tree with his 18-year-old brother, Nahshon. Suddenly, a group of men wearing ski masks forced their way into the residence. During the home invasion, Kevin was shot nine times in his doorway. A friend who was also present was shot in the leg but survived. Kevin’s brother and father were also there and were not physically harmed. Kevin was rushed to University Hospital, but he did not survive his injuries.

The investigation that followed revealed the deadly home invasion was a planned robbery. According to Kevin’s mother, she later learned that her son had been set up to be robbed by several young women. While police initially announced no arrests had been made, the investigation eventually led them to the people responsible for the attack.

The individuals involved in planning and carrying out the robbery that led to Kevin King's death were ultimately arrested, charged, and convicted. The women who helped set up the robbery received prison sentences ranging from 14 to 18 years. The man who shot Kevin was sentenced to 30 years in prison. As of June 2026, Kevin’s killers have been convicted and are serving their sentences, and the case is considered closed. His mother continues to honor his memory and has found comfort by connecting with other families who have lost loved ones to gun violence.