Akron police detectives are actively investigating a fatal shooting that took the life of 23-year-old Diamond Fisk in the early hours of Sunday morning outside a nightclub in West Akron. The incident has shocked the community and prompted renewed calls for increased safety and violence prevention measures in nightlife areas.
According to a statement released by the Akron Police Department, the shooting occurred at approximately 2:16 a.m. in the parking lot of a McDonald’s adjacent to the Empire Lounge, a nightclub located on Merriman Road. At the time of the shooting, officers were already on scene working to disperse a large crowd that had gathered in the parking area outside the club.
What began as a routine crowd control operation quickly escalated into chaos when shots rang out nearby. Officers reported hearing the gunfire and responded immediately to the adjoining McDonald’s lot, where they discovered Diamond Fisk suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Emergency medical personnel were called to the scene and quickly transported Fisk to Cleveland Clinic Akron General Hospital. Despite life-saving efforts, she was later pronounced dead.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, and investigators are working diligently to piece together what led to the tragic event. Detectives are currently reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and speaking with witnesses who were present at the scene.
Authorities have not announced any suspects or arrests as of yet and have not disclosed whether they believe the shooting was a targeted attack or a random act of violence. However, the presence of law enforcement on the scene prior to the incident is expected to aid in the investigation.
Diamond Fisk’s identity was confirmed by the Summit County Medical Examiner’s Office later Sunday morning. Family members describe Fisk as a vibrant young woman whose life was tragically cut short. She is remembered for her warm spirit and loving nature, leaving behind grieving relatives and friends who are now calling for justice.
The Empire Lounge, while popular among local residents for its weekend nightlife, has seen police presence before due to previous disturbances. This latest incident adds to growing concerns about safety at entertainment venues and the need for tighter security measures to prevent violence.
In a press briefing Sunday afternoon, Akron Police Chief Brian Harding expressed his condolences to the victim’s family and urged anyone with information to come forward. “This young woman had her whole life ahead of her. We are committed to finding the person or persons responsible and bringing them to justice,” Harding stated.
The Akron Police Department is asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has video footage from the area during the time of the shooting to contact the Akron Police Detective Bureau at 330-375-2490. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling Summit County Crimestoppers at 330-434-COPS or by texting TIPSCO and a message to 274637 (CRIMES).
As the community grapples with this senseless act of violence, local leaders and residents alike are calling for unity and a collaborative effort to address the root causes of gun violence in Akron.
A candlelight vigil in memory of Diamond Fisk is reportedly being planned by family and friends, with more details expected in the coming days.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.