Cincinnati, OH – The Spring Grove Village community is reeling from a tragic act of violence that claimed the life of 35-year-old Joseph Harris Jr. on Friday morning. Cincinnati Police have confirmed that Harris was shot and killed in a mid-day incident that has sparked an active homicide investigation.
The shooting occurred shortly before 11:30 a.m. on Kings Run Drive, near Jacob’s Market, a familiar neighborhood corner store. Officers from the Cincinnati Police Department responded swiftly to the scene following multiple reports of gunfire in the area.
Upon arrival, authorities discovered Joseph Harris Jr. suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to provide aid, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Police cordoned off the area, and crime scene investigators began collecting evidence as stunned residents looked on.
Details surrounding what led to the shooting remain unclear. Police have not released information about any suspects or possible motives, and no arrests had been announced as of Friday evening. The department is urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in solving the case.
Harris’s family and friends are devastated by the sudden and violent loss of a man they describe as loyal, generous, and deeply loved by those who knew him. Known for his sense of humor and big heart, Joseph was someone who always tried to lift the spirits of those around him. His death leaves a painful void in a tight-knit community that is no stranger to hardship.
“This isn’t just another statistic. This was someone’s son, someone’s brother, someone’s friend,” a neighbor shared, visibly shaken. “He didn’t deserve this.”
In the wake of the tragedy, community leaders and residents have renewed their call for an end to gun violence in Cincinnati’s neighborhoods and are appealing for unity and cooperation in bringing those responsible to justice.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact the Cincinnati Police Department’s Homicide Unit at (513) 352-3542, or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at (513) 352-3040.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a life taken far too soon. A memorial is being planned in Harris’s honor, and funeral arrangements will be shared once finalized by the family.