Donny Terry Jr

Donny Terry Jr., a 21-year-old white male, was a young man with his life ahead of him when he was killed in Dayton, Ohio. He was a beloved nephew, remembered in the years after his death by his extended family, including his uncle, Timothy S. Hunter, and his four aunts. His death left a void in his family that has remained for decades.

On the evening of Friday, February 17, 1995, Donny was driving his gold 1980 Buick Regal through the city. As he drove near the address of 1247 Riverview Avenue, he was suddenly and violently shot. The gunshot wound caused him to lose control of his car, which then crashed into a pole. The sound of the crash drew the attention of several people in the immediate area. A number of witnesses rushed to the wrecked Buick to help the driver. They found Donny gravely injured but still alive. He was struggling to communicate with those who had come to his aid, but his injuries made his words difficult, if not impossible, to understand. Emergency services were called, and he was quickly transported to a local hospital for treatment. Despite the efforts of medical staff, Donny Terry Jr. succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead.

The Dayton Police Department launched a homicide investigation into Donny's death. Detectives processed the scene on Riverview Avenue, collecting evidence from his vehicle and the surrounding area. They interviewed the witnesses who had been at the scene immediately after the crash, hoping to piece together a clear timeline of events and a description of any potential suspects or vehicles involved. However, the initial investigation did not lead to an arrest, and as time passed with no new leads, the case grew cold. The identity of the person or persons who shot Donny, and the motive for the attack, have never been determined.

For more than two decades, Donny's murder has remained unsolved, a painful and unresolved chapter for his loved ones. The case is now listed among the unsolved homicides on the Ohio Attorney General's cold case website, a public appeal for information that might finally break the silence. The Dayton Police Department also includes Donny's case in its public list of unsolved murders, hoping to jog someone's memory or prick someone's conscience. Investigators believe that there are people who hold information that could be crucial to solving the crime. Even a seemingly small or insignificant detail could provide the missing piece needed to move forward.

The case of Donny Terry Jr. is a stark reminder of the violence that can shatter a life and leave a family searching for answers for years. As of today, no suspects have been publicly identified, and no arrests have been made. The investigation remains open but inactive, pending new information. Authorities continue to encourage anyone with knowledge about the shooting on Riverview Avenue that night to come forward. Miami Valley Crime Stoppers is accepting anonymous tips and can be reached at 937-222-STOP or 1-800-637-5375. A tip could be the key to bringing a measure of justice to Donny and providing long-awaited closure for his family.