AKRON -- After a deadly month of gun violence, the city of Akron is making a call for peace.
Since July 5th, six people have been killed in shootings, others injured, including teenagers. Most recently, 15-year-old Tyrone Phelps was shot and killed Sunday night.
So far this year, 21 homicides have been reported in the city. In 2017, that number was 19 and in 2016, it was 26. The recent shootings led city of Akron officials to hold a news conference on Monday afternoon to address the recent outbreak of gun violence within the city.
WKYC streamed the news conference on our Facebook page:
"We are nto going to tolerate the kind of victimization that this is having in our community. This is not only a police problem, it’s a community problem, and it will not be only solved with more law enforcement. So we’re here to ask for help," said Akron Police Chief Kenneth Ball.
Police are looking for these three men wanted in connection to two recent homicides.
Left: 19-year-old Kennae Marzette Baker, wanted in connection with the fatal shooting on Everton Drive that took the life of a 27-year-old man last month.
Center: 27-year-old Andre Warren, wanted in connection for the murder outside Julian's Restaurant in Akron earlier this month.
Right: 31-year-old Bryan Esters, wanted in connection for the murder outside Julian's Restaurant in Akron earlier this month.
Ball asked the public to reach out to police with any information related to the crimes. He also had a message to parents – to watch over their child’s activity on social media for gun or gang-related images.