On the evening of May 9, 2025, 21-year-old Stephon J. Dunn was shot and killed in Canton, Ohio. Officers responding about 8:45 p.m. to the 1500 block of Clarendon Avenue SW found him in a front yard with a gunshot wound to his back. Police performed CPR and he was taken to Aultman Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Witnesses said two men had been arguing in the front yard when a single gunshot rang out; Stephon, who did not live in the neighborhood, was seen staggering before collapsing. Canton police identified 18-year-old Malachi Lee-Shawn Fortner as the primary suspect, obtained an arrest warrant, and arrested him on May 10, 2025; he faces charges of murder and felonious assault.

Stephon’s family described him as brave, loyal, and devoted to his daughter and mother, and the community has called for justice. If anyone saw the argument or has information about the shooting, please share what is known.