A 17-year-old boy was shot and killed early Tuesday morning in Cincinnati’s Westwood neighborhood, marking yet another tragic act of gun violence involving a young victim. The Hamilton County Coroner’s Office identified the teen as Jayshaun Cornelious, who was found with multiple gunshot wounds inside a residence on Percy Avenue around 1:30 a.m.
When officers arrived on the scene, they discovered Cornelious unresponsive. Emergency responders confirmed he had been shot three times and pronounced him dead at the scene. According to police, approximately 14 gunshots were fired during the incident. The suspect had fled the area before authorities arrived, and no arrests have been made as of Tuesday afternoon.
Detectives with the Cincinnati Police Department launched an immediate investigation. By 5:30 a.m., Percy Avenue remained closed off as forensic teams processed the scene and interviewed potential witnesses. Several people who were reportedly present at the time of the shooting are cooperating with law enforcement. Investigators are also reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses in an effort to identify the shooter.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and authorities have not confirmed whether the suspect and Cornelious knew each other. Police are considering all possibilities, including whether the violence stemmed from a personal dispute or another conflict. Residents are urged to come forward with any information by contacting CrimeStoppers at (513) 352-3040. Anonymous tips are welcome and could be crucial in solving the case.
The death of Jayshaun Cornelious has left the Westwood community reeling. Friends and family described him as a kind, outgoing teen with a promising future. A growing memorial of candles and flowers now sits outside the home where the shooting occurred, as neighbors mourn and demand answers. Community leaders have reiterated the need for increased investment in youth programs and violence prevention initiatives.
As the investigation continues, officials are asking for the public’s help in bringing the perpetrator to justice. The loss of another young life has reignited conversations about youth violence in Cincinnati and across the nation. With police pursuing leads and the community in mourning, the hope remains that justice for Jayshaun Cornelious will be achieved—and that meaningful steps will be taken to prevent future tragedies.