Josiah Harris, 15, was trying to pull his dog away when another teen fired, police said.
AKRON, Ohio — A 15-year-old boy was shot and killed Tuesday evening in Akron after police said a younger teen opened fire while being attacked by a dog outside a home.
Akron police said Josiah Harris was hit during the incident in the 1200 block of Packard Drive. The Summit County Medical Examiner’s Office said the shooting happened about 7:20 p.m. Harris was taken to Akron Children’s Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 8 p.m.
Police said a 14-year-old boy had gone to Harris’ home to visit when Harris’ dog ran toward him and attacked, latching onto his left arm. Investigators said the younger teen pulled out a gun and fired several shots during the attack. The gunfire struck both the dog and Harris, who police said was trying to pull the dog away.
After the shooting, the 14-year-old ran to a nearby home, where relatives called 911, police said. He was taken to Akron Children’s Hospital for treatment of injuries from the dog attack. The dog also received emergency care. Officials have not publicly released the younger teen’s name because he is a juvenile.
Family members identified Harris as Josiah, known to relatives as “JoJo.” His aunt, Donta Spaulding, said the family is devastated by the sudden loss. “Josiah’s gone. He’s never coming back,” Spaulding said. Relatives said Harris was a triplet and leaves behind two sisters and a large extended family.
Police have described the shooting as accidental, but the investigation remains open. Officials have not said how the 14-year-old obtained the gun or whether any charges will be filed. Investigators are reviewing the shooting, the dog attack and the moments leading up to the gunfire.
Relatives said Harris loved his dog and was trying to protect both the animal and his friend when he was shot. Family members also questioned why a 14-year-old had a gun. Police have not released details about the firearm, including who owned it or where it came from.
The case remains under investigation by Akron police and the Summit County Medical Examiner’s Office. No charges had been announced as of the latest public updates, and officials said more information may be released after investigators complete their review.
Author note: Last updated July 4, 2026.