On May 26, 2024, around 3 a.m., a tragic altercation occurred near St. Clair Avenue and East 13th Street in Downtown Cleveland. Mark Hardy, Kenneth Patterson, and Da’Karai Johnson were among a group of people standing outside when a confrontation escalated into deadly violence. According to the indictment, Hardy, Patterson, and Johnson fired multiple shots, resulting in the deaths of Ta’Von Thompson, 28, and De’Andre Smith, 24. Additionally, a 26-year-old female and a 19-year-old male were injured in the shooting.
The Cleveland Division of Police (CDP) and Cleveland EMS responded promptly to the scene. They found four individuals suffering from gunshot wounds and immediately transported them to a nearby hospital. Despite medical efforts, Ta’Von Thompson and De’Andre Smith were later pronounced dead. The 26-year-old female and 19-year-old male, whose names have not been released, received treatment for their injuries and are expected to recover.
Investigation and Arrests
The subsequent investigation by the CDP revealed that Mark Hardy and Kenneth Patterson were responsible for the deaths of Ta’Von Thompson and De’Andre Smith, while Da’Karai Johnson was identified as the shooter of the 26-year-old female and 19-year-old male. Following the incident, Hardy and Johnson remained in the Cleveland area and were arrested by CDP on June 6, 2024. Patterson fled to Tennessee but was apprehended by the Tennessee Highway Patrol on June 12, 2024.
Indictments and Charges
On June 14, 2024, Mark Hardy and Kenneth Patterson were indicted on the following charges:
- Three counts of Murder
- Two counts of Felonious Assault
Da’Karai Johnson was indicted on the following charges:
- Four counts of Felonious Assault
Upcoming Legal Proceedings
The three suspects will be arraigned at the Cuyahoga County Justice Center at a later date. The prosecution will present evidence to establish the roles of Hardy, Patterson, and Johnson in the shooting, with the aim of securing convictions on all charges.
The deadly shooting has sent shockwaves through the Downtown Cleveland community, prompting calls for increased safety measures and a closer examination of the underlying causes of such violent incidents. Community leaders and residents have expressed their grief and outrage over the loss of life and the impact on the victims’ families.
Councilwoman Mary Ann Hart, representing the district where the shooting occurred, shared her condolences with the victims’ families. “This senseless violence has no place in our community,” Hart said. “We must come together to support the families affected and work towards creating a safer environment for all residents.”
Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael C. O’Malley emphasized the importance of thorough investigation and justice for the victims. “The actions of these individuals have caused immense pain and suffering,” O’Malley stated. “Our office is committed to ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.”
Cleveland Police Chief Calvin Williams also addressed the incident, highlighting the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in apprehending the suspects. “This case underscores the importance of cooperation between different jurisdictions,” Williams noted. “We are grateful for the swift actions of the Tennessee Highway Patrol in apprehending Kenneth Patterson, and we will continue to work diligently to bring justice to the victims and their families.”
In response to the shooting, local authorities are reviewing current safety protocols and exploring additional measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Increased police patrols, improved lighting in public areas, and community outreach programs are among the strategies being considered to enhance public safety.
Nonprofit organizations and community groups have also stepped forward to offer support to the victims’ families. The Cleveland Foundation has established a fund to assist with medical expenses and funeral costs, while local counseling services are providing grief support to those affected by the tragedy.
Ta’Von Thompson and De’Andre Smith are remembered by their loved ones as vibrant individuals who brought joy and positivity to those around them. Friends and family have shared heartfelt tributes, celebrating their lives and mourning their untimely deaths.
“Ta’Von was a loving son and a great friend,” said Lisa Thompson, his mother. “He had a bright future ahead of him, and it’s devastating to know that he was taken from us so suddenly. We appreciate all the support from the community during this difficult time.”
Similarly, De’Andre Smith’s family expressed their grief and gratitude for the outpouring of support. “De’Andre was a kind-hearted young man with big dreams,” his sister, Jasmine Smith, shared. “We are heartbroken by his loss, but we take comfort in the love and support we’ve received from everyone.”
As the legal proceedings move forward, the Downtown Cleveland community remains united in their resolve to seek justice for Ta’Von Thompson, De’Andre Smith, and the injured victims. The indictments of Mark Hardy, Kenneth Patterson, and Da’Karai Johnson represent a crucial step towards accountability and closure for the families affected by this tragic event.
Authorities continue to encourage anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward and assist in the investigation. Community leaders and residents are committed to working together to address the root causes of violence and ensure a safer environment for all.
Channel3 Now will provide ongoing coverage of this case and keep the community informed of any new developments. Our thoughts and condolences are with the families and friends of the victims during this difficult time.
