Zayn Disher

Zayn Michael “Zay” Disher was a 24-year-old White man from Toledo, Ohio, known for his strong work ethic and constant smile. A loving father to his two young sons, Zayden and Zayvier, Zayn owned and operated his own successful company, Zaytowing, becoming the top buyer of junk cars in the area. His family described him as having the biggest heart of anyone they knew, a man who worked from sunrise to sunset but still found time to work on his Camaro and help anyone who needed him. His father, Jason, said he was honest, and his funeral was attended by over 500 people, a testament to how much he was loved.

In the early morning hours of October 27, 2024, Zayn was at a Halloween party at a residence in the 2500 block of Airport Highway. Around 3:45 a.m., police were called to the home for a report of a person shot. Officers arrived to find Zayn suffering from at least one gunshot wound. First responders provided immediate treatment and rushed him to the University of Toledo Medical Center, but he died from his injuries a short time later. His death was ruled a homicide.

The Toledo Police Department’s investigation quickly led them to a suspect. Multiple witnesses at the party identified the shooter as Elijah Garza, a 24-year-old acquaintance of Zayn’s. Police arrested Garza nearly 36 hours after the shooting. He was subsequently held on a $1 million bond.

Elijah Garza later accepted a plea deal, pleading guilty to the lesser offense of involuntary manslaughter with a firearm specification. On October 6, 2025, a judge sentenced Garza to serve at least 10 years in prison for his role in Zayn Disher’s death.

Zayn’s family continues to honor his memory. They have kept his towing business running and maintain a year-round memorial where friends and loved ones can sit and talk to him. For what would have been his 25th birthday in September 2025, his family hosted a celebration of life with a candlelight vigil, fireworks, and food, ensuring his work ethic, smile, and loving spirit are not forgotten. The case was closed with Garza’s sentencing in October 2025.