CINCINNATI, OH – The community of College Hill is reeling from the tragic loss of 30-year-old Levonte Hyde, who was fatally shot in an overnight incident that has left residents shaken and law enforcement officials working tirelessly to uncover the details behind this heartbreaking event.

The Incident: A Late-Night Tragedy in College Hill

According to Captain Stephen Bower of the Cincinnati Police Department, authorities were alerted to reports of gunfire in the 1600 block of Pasadena Avenue at approximately 12:47 a.m. on Thursday, February 22, 2025. Residents in the typically quiet neighborhood were jolted awake by the sounds of multiple gunshots, prompting a flurry of 911 calls from concerned citizens.

Upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered Levonte Hyde lying on the pavement, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Witnesses described a chaotic and distressing scene, as neighbors and passersby attempted to provide assistance while awaiting emergency responders. Hyde, barely conscious, was struggling to breathe, his injuries proving severe.

Paramedics arrived within minutes and immediately administered emergency medical care before transporting Hyde to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, the region’s leading trauma facility. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Hyde succumbed to his injuries early Thursday morning, marking yet another tragic loss to gun violence in the city.

The Victim: Who Was Levonte Hyde?

Levonte Hyde, a longtime resident of Cincinnati, was described by friends and family as a kindhearted individual with an infectious smile and an unwavering devotion to those he loved. He grew up in the city and was well-known in his community, having attended Aiken High School before working as a technician in the automotive industry.

His cousin, Jasmine Holloway, spoke tearfully about Levonte’s kind nature and willingness to help others. “He was the type of person who would give you the shirt off his back. If you needed a ride, if you needed help fixing something, he was there. This is such a senseless tragedy,” she said.

Hyde’s tragic death has sent shockwaves through his family, with his mother, Carla Hyde, struggling to comprehend the sudden loss of her son. “I just talked to him that evening. He said he was going out for a little bit, and now he’s gone,” she said, her voice breaking with grief. “No mother should have to bury her child.”

The Investigation: A Juvenile Person of Interest Questioned

Authorities have confirmed that a juvenile has been questioned in connection with the shooting. While police have not yet disclosed the identity of the individual, sources close to the investigation suggest that the person of interest may have had prior interactions with Hyde.

Investigators are now combing through surveillance footage from nearby residences and businesses in hopes of gathering more concrete evidence that may shed light on what led to this deadly altercation.

“We are working diligently to piece together exactly what happened that night,” said Captain Bower. “We encourage anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward. It could be the key to bringing justice for Levonte Hyde and his family.”

As of now, no formal arrests have been made, and authorities remain cautious in revealing too many details as the investigation unfolds.

The Crime Scene and Community Reactions

The area where the shooting took place, the 1600 block of Pasadena Avenue, is a residential street lined with single-family homes, small apartment complexes, and a scattering of local businesses. While the neighborhood has experienced crime in the past, violent incidents of this magnitude remain rare, leaving many residents unsettled.

“This used to be a peaceful place where kids could play outside,” said longtime resident George Millington. “Lately, it feels like we’re hearing about shootings every other week. It’s devastating.”

Many community members gathered on Thursday evening for a candlelight vigil to honor Hyde’s memory. Family, friends, and neighbors stood together, holding flickering candles and sharing stories of the man whose life was taken too soon.

The Growing Concern of Gun Violence in Cincinnati

Hyde’s murder is the latest in a string of violent crimes that have plagued Cincinnati in recent months. Local leaders and activists have raised concerns about the increasing rates of gun-related homicides, particularly among young adults and teenagers.

Cincinnati Councilwoman Erika White emphasized the urgent need for community-driven initiatives to prevent such tragedies. “We need to invest in programs that address conflict resolution, provide mentorship opportunities, and offer young people a path away from violence,” she stated.

Meanwhile, law enforcement officials have vowed to increase patrols in high-crime areas and enhance partnerships with neighborhood watch programs to prevent further acts of violence.

Seeking Justice: Authorities Call for Public Assistance

In the wake of Hyde’s death, the Cincinnati Police Department is urging anyone with information to come forward. Authorities believe that there are individuals who may have witnessed the incident or have knowledge of what led to the fatal shooting.

“We need the community to step up,” said Detective William Reynolds of CPD’s Homicide Unit. “We know that someone out there has information that can help us bring closure to this case. If you saw something, say something.”

Crime Stoppers is offering a reward for tips leading to an arrest, and callers can remain anonymous by dialing (513) 352-3040.

The Aftermath: Remembering Levonte Hyde

As investigations continue, Hyde’s loved ones are left to navigate the painful process of grief. His sister, Michelle Hyde, posted an emotional tribute on social media, sharing photos and memories of her brother.

“My heart is shattered,” she wrote. “I can’t believe you’re gone, Levonte. We were supposed to grow old together, laugh at dumb jokes, and be there for each other no matter what. This is unreal.”

A GoFundMe campaign has been created by Hyde’s family to cover funeral expenses, as well as to support his mother during this difficult time. The campaign has seen an outpouring of donations from community members, friends, and even strangers who were moved by his story.

Conclusion: A City Mourns, A Family Seeks Answers

As the investigation into Levonte Hyde’s death continues, the College Hill neighborhood and the greater Cincinnati area remain united in their grief. Hyde’s passing is not just a statistic; it is a painful reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence and the lives it irreversibly alters.

His family, friends, and community are left waiting for justice, hoping that those responsible will be held accountable. While the streets of Pasadena Avenue have quieted since that fateful night, the echoes of gunfire and the loss they inflicted remain deeply felt.

Authorities urge anyone with information to step forward, ensuring that Hyde’s story does not become just another unsolved case, but rather a catalyst for change in a city longing for peace.