Akron Police homicide detectives are investigating the fatal shooting of 27-year-old Razeil Robinson, who was killed early Thursday morning while sitting at a picnic table on Rosemary Boulevard.
Officers were dispatched to the 1000 block of Rosemary Boulevard around 7 a.m., where they found Robinson suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Family members described Robinson as a gentle, humble, and soft-spoken man who lived a quiet life.
“He was a very peaceful, calm soul. I just don’t understand why they would do that to him. Why would they take his life? He didn’t do anything,” his mother, LaTasha Robinson, told News 5.
She added that her son struggled with mental health challenges and rarely went out, except to buy groceries or spend time nearby. On Wednesday night, she grew worried after hearing gunfire in the neighborhood, knowing that Razeil had stepped out earlier. Hours later, police confirmed her fears.
Investigators said Robinson had been sitting at a picnic table outside SMB International, a local business he often visited to chat with workers and smoke cigarettes. They believe he was shot while seated, then attempted to run before collapsing near the company’s sign.
At this time, detectives have no suspects and no indication Robinson was specifically targeted.
“It’s unsettling because what we do know is that there’s someone capable of committing a crime like this still out on the loose,” said Akron Police Lt. Michael Murphy, noting that officers are canvassing the area for evidence and surveillance footage.
As the Robinson family begins preparations to lay Razeil to rest, they are also calling for accountability.
“I just want them to rot in jail, just sit there and rot and think about what you did and then wonder why you did what you did,” his mother said.
Police are urging anyone with information to contact the Akron Police Detective Bureau at 330-375-2490 or Summit County Crimestoppers at 330-434-COPS.