CLEVELAND — A young man who was shot earlier this week at a Willoughby apartment complex has died, authorities confirmed. The victim has been identified by the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office as 20-year-old Damonte K. Perry of Euclid. Perry succumbed to his injuries on Thursday, September 18, three days after the shooting took place.
According to a statement previously released by the Willoughby Police Department, officers were dispatched shortly before 4 p.m. on Monday, September 15, following reports of a shooting in the 1300 block of Fox Run Drive. The incident occurred at the Hamlets of Willoughby apartment complex, located at 1337 Fox Run Drive.
When emergency crews arrived, they found Perry suffering from gunshot wounds. He was initially transported to a local Willoughby hospital. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was later airlifted to a hospital in Cleveland for advanced care. Despite medical intervention, Perry passed away several days later.
Police confirmed that a suspect connected to the shooting was taken into custody within hours of the incident. However, authorities have not released the suspect’s name or provided details about potential charges. Officials have also not revealed what led to the shooting or whether the suspect and victim knew each other.
The investigation remains ongoing as detectives work to gather additional evidence and determine the circumstances that led to the deadly encounter. Authorities are urging anyone with information to assist in the case by contacting Willoughby Police detectives at 440-953-4210.
The shooting has left the community shaken, particularly given the young age of the victim. Residents of the Hamlets of Willoughby apartment complex reported being startled by the heavy police presence on Monday evening as officers secured the scene and carried out their investigation.
Gun violence in the region continues to be a concern for law enforcement and community leaders, who stress the importance of public cooperation in solving such cases. Investigators are reviewing evidence and speaking with witnesses in hopes of providing clarity and bringing closure to Perry’s family.
Perry’s death marks yet another tragic outcome in a violent incident, cutting short the life of a 20-year-old. While police have reassured residents that a suspect is already in custody, they are emphasizing the need for patience as the investigation progresses and facts are confirmed.
Authorities are expected to release more details about the suspect, charges, and possible motive once the investigation advances further. For now, officials are focused on piecing together the timeline of events leading up to the shooting and ensuring that justice is pursued.
The Willoughby Police Department has promised to keep the public updated as new information becomes available, but is stressing that the case remains active. Meanwhile, family, friends, and community members are left grieving the loss of Damonte Perry, whose death underscores the devastating impact of gun violence in the area.
