On Saturday, November 25, 2023, at approximately 8:43 pm, Cleveland Police Officers were in the area of Public Square conducting foot patrol following the tree lighting ceremony, which had ended an hour prior. Officers were advised a large group of juveniles were actively fighting. Officers immediately responded and learned two juveniles near the area of the fight were victims of gunshots. Officers immediately provided first aid. The victims, 15-year-old and 13-year-old males, were transported to the hospital by Cleveland EMS. Officers have arrested one suspect. This incident is currently under investigation and further information will be released as the investigation allows.
In the aftermath of the violence on Public Square following the annual WinterLand lighting event, Michael Deemer, President & CEO of Downtown Cleveland, Inc., issued the following statement:
“Downtown Cleveland hosted a great celebration of the season in Public Square tonight, marred later by senseless violence. We are grateful for the rapid response of the Cleveland Division of Police. There are too many guns in our community and too little respect for life or authority. Our organization is committed to addressing both. There is absolutely no place for violence in Downtown Cleveland. Everyone should feel safe and be safe in Downtown Cleveland. The level of communication and interaction between CDP with Downtown stakeholders is at an all-time high. We will continue to work with our partners to enhance safety.”
Statement from Council President Blaine A. Griffin on Public Square Shooting
The annual Christmas tree lighting in Public Square tonight was attended by hundreds of families and individuals who came for the lights, the fireworks and the activities in and around the square. It was marred by a shooting more than an hour after the lighting, with two young men, 13 and 15 years old, being shot. Officers responded and provided first-aid. Both were transported to a hospital by Cleveland EMS and are reportedly in stable condition.
Cleveland police quickly arrested a suspect. The investigation is continuing. This crime impacted what otherwise was a beautiful evening in Cleveland’s Public Square. I’m deeply saddened by this but we will continue to be vigilant and hold those involved in this crime accountable. This does not define Cleveland.