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Police Seek Answers in Killing of Recent North High Graduate

Akron police are searching for leads in the murder of Na'kia Crawford, 18, a recent North High graduate who was shot to death in her car Sunday afternoon.

A reward is being offered and police urge anyone who knows anything to come forward.

Na'Kia Crawford was shot multiple times while stopped at a red light on Sunday afternoon at the intersection of N. Howard and E. North Streets. Her grandmother was in the passenger seat but was not hurt.

Deputy Chief Jesse Leeser said there is no description of a suspect or suspects, but witnesses report seeing a black sports car, possibly a Chevy Camaro. Police have released surveillance photos of the car in question.  

Police have released this photo of the car witnesses report seeing when Crawford was shot.
Credit AKRON POLICE DEPARTMENT
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AKRON POLICE DEPARTMENT
Police have released this photo of the car witnesses report seeing when Crawford was shot.

"We are asking the public to please provide information about this murder. Somebody knows something. We're asking for tips that would give light to this event and result in the arrest of the individual or individuals responsible," Leeser said.

Leeser said a motive in the shooting is still unkown. 

He urges anyone with information to call the Akron Police Department at (330) 375-2490, Summit County Crimestoppers at (330) 434-2677 or text TIPSCO at 274637. 

There is a $45,000 reward.

The Akron Beacon Journal reports on Monday there was a protest at the intersection where Crawford was shot calling for justice in the case. A candlelight vigil to honor Crawford was also held. 

Copyright 2021 WKSU. To see more, visit WKSU.

Photo of a black sports car, possibly a Chevy Camaro, suspected in the shooting.
/ AKRON POLICE
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AKRON POLICE
Photo of a black sports car, possibly a Chevy Camaro, suspected in the shooting.

Mark has been a host, reporter and producer at several NPR member stations in Delaware, Alaska, Washington and Kansas. His reporting has taken him everywhere from remote islands in the Bering Sea to the tops of skyscrapers overlooking Puget Sound. He is a diehard college basketball fan who enjoys taking walks with his dog, Otis.