PAINESVILLE, OH — Authorities have identified the victim of a deadly shooting that took place Saturday evening in Painesville as 20-year-old Wyllyam James Sheffey Jr., a resident of Ashtabula. The fatal incident occurred at the intersection of North State Street and Rockwood Drive, where Sheffey Jr. was found unresponsive in his vehicle.
Police responded to reports of gunfire at about 7:59 p.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered Sheffey Jr. in the driver’s seat of his car, suffering from fatal injuries. Emergency responders confirmed his death at the scene. Officials have clarified that the shooting was not connected to the Spring Block Party happening that same night in downtown Painesville, ensuring the community that the violent act was isolated from the public event.
The response to the shooting involved multiple agencies. Alongside the Painesville Police Department, the Lake County Sheriff’s Department and the Ohio State Highway Patrol helped secure the scene and support the ongoing investigation. The Painesville City Fire Department also provided assistance. The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) sent a forensic team to carefully collect and process evidence, working closely with local detectives.
Investigators are currently reviewing a “large volume of information and evidence,” according to police officials. Detectives are actively following multiple leads to uncover the circumstances surrounding the shooting. As of now, no suspects or motives have been publicly identified. The investigation remains open and ongoing.
Police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Community members can contact the Painesville Police Department at 440-392-5840 or submit tips anonymously via the Painesville Police Tipline at 440-392-5839. Even small pieces of information or video footage from nearby residents could be crucial to the case.
The tragic loss of Wyllyam James Sheffey Jr. has deeply affected both the Ashtabula and Painesville communities. Authorities remain committed to pursuing justice and hope that public cooperation will help bring those responsible to account. The Painesville Police Department will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses.
