AKRON, OH – Authorities are investigating a suspected murder-suicide after a man and woman were found dead inside a Highland Square residence on Monday night. The Summit County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victims as 44-year-old Jessica Leigh Violand of Elyria and 26-year-old Elliot Hareem Altesa of Akron. Officials determined that Altesa fatally shot Violand before taking his own life.
Akron police responded to the home in the 20 block of South Highland Avenue around 7:30 p.m. after receiving a welfare check request. A concerned individual had contacted law enforcement, stating they had been unable to reach Violand for several hours. Upon arrival, officers entered the apartment and discovered both individuals deceased in a bedroom. They were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators have not yet disclosed a potential motive for the shooting. It remains unclear what led to the tragic incident or the nature of the relationship between Violand and Altesa. Authorities are continuing their efforts to gather evidence and speak with individuals who may have had recent contact with the victims.
Neighbors in the Highland Square area expressed shock and sadness over the deaths. Some reported hearing loud noises earlier in the day but did not immediately realize a violent crime had taken place. Others described the neighborhood as typically quiet, making the incident all the more unsettling.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with information to come forward. The Akron Police Department’s Detective Bureau is handling the case and encourages those with relevant details to contact them at 330-375-2490 or 330-375-2TIP. Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted through Summit County Crimestoppers by calling 330-434-COPS, texting TIPSCO to 274637, or using the Akron PD app via www.AkronCops.org.
This tragic event has left the community mourning and searching for answers. Officials hope that further investigation will provide clarity on the circumstances leading up to the incident. Meanwhile, loved ones of the victims are left to grieve their sudden and heartbreaking loss.
