Trayviyon Smith

Trayviyon Smith, a 25-year-old Black man from Cleveland, Ohio, was known for his ability to light up a room with his smile and infectious laughter. Born on July 19, 1998, his family remembered him as someone who, from the very beginning, brought joy and warmth to everyone around him. He was described as a true friend with a generous heart and unwavering spirit, always making time to offer a listening ear, a helping hand, or a kind word. His greatest passions were his family and traveling, and he embraced both with an adventurous and open heart. Trayviyon cherished every moment he spent creating memories filled with laughter and love. His positive outlook and zest for life were an inspiration to those who knew him. His death, just twelve days before his 26th birthday, left a void that his loved ones say will never be filled.

On Sunday, July 7, 2024, Trayviyon’s life was tragically cut short. He and another 25-year-old man, Demetrius Walker, were found deceased inside a garage in Cleveland. The discovery was made in the 3700 block of E. 93rd Street in the city's Union-Miles Park neighborhood. The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office was called to the scene and later officially identified both men, classifying their deaths as homicides. A few days later, on July 12, the Cleveland Division of Police confirmed that both Trayviyon and Demetrius had died from gunshot wounds. The specific circumstances that led to the shooting have not been released to the public.

The Cleveland Division of Police immediately launched a homicide investigation into the double murder. Detectives from the Homicide Unit began processing the scene and searching for evidence, but authorities have not publicly released information about potential suspects or a motive in the case. As of the initial reports, no arrests had been made, and the investigation was described as ongoing. The loss has been devastating for Trayviyon’s family, who continue to seek answers and justice.

Trayviyon is survived by his loving and devoted parents, Yvette Smith and Gary Hobbs, his grandmother Julia Smith, and numerous siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, and a wide network of friends who were touched by his kindness and enthusiasm for life. The pain of his absence is deeply felt. In an online message, his mother wrote, "im counting the days to when I will see justice served... im going to fight for justice everyday until justice is served no matter how long it takes because my world don't spin without you in it." Another family member wrote, "Your smile and your laugh will always be in our hearts. You were my favorite human now you’re my favorite angel."

A visitation for Trayviyon was held on Friday, August 2, 2024, at the Calhoun Funeral Home in Bedford Heights, followed by a service the next morning. The family’s grief was compounded the following year when Trayviyon's grandmother, Julia Mae Smith, passed away; her obituary poignantly listed him among her late grandchildren. The family continues to cherish his memory, holding onto the moments of love and laughter he brought into their lives.

The case of Trayviyon Smith's murder remains unsolved. The Cleveland Division of Police continues to investigate the double homicide and urges anyone with information to come forward. As of July 2024, no suspects have been publicly identified or arrested. Police are asking anyone with knowledge of the shooting that killed Trayviyon Smith and Demetrius Walker to contact the Cleveland Division of Police Homicide Unit at 216-623-5464.