Edgewater Beach shooting, 18-year-old shot dead Saturday night

CLEVELAND (WJW) – An 18-year-old man is in serious condition at MetroHealth Medical Center after being shot in Edgewater Beach Saturday evening.

Numerous shots were fired, according to 911 callers who reported the incident around 9 p.m., in the area of ​​the Beach House.

Cleveland EMS responded to the scene, where they found the 18-year-old suffering from a gunshot wound.

Now, the Cleveland Metroparks Police Department is investigating the shooting, working with other local law enforcement agencies as necessary to apprehend those responsible.

On Sunday, there was an increased presence of Metroparks police officers stationed near the Beach House, marching on foot to ensure the safety of guests.

Visitors who spoke to FOX 8 said they love Edgewater Beach because it's a safe and beautiful place to spend time.

They are generally concerned about the violent incident and want the police to have a stronger presence.

“It seems like the police presence is not what it should be during the evening,” said Cleveland resident Mark Purnell. “That's when things get a little different, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., until the park closes, you get a different element here. So this is when the presence of rangers, police or any other person should be greater.

“Very concerning there, yes,” said Donald Hopkins, a Twinsburg resident. “You want to go somewhere safe, nice, secure and have fun. People are having fun, but after hours or later, that's when the attitude or people change.

Hopkins and his wife Karin Seetch-Hopkins suggest a curfew could help prevent problems.

“We’re not going to let this stop us from coming here, because it’s one of our favorite places,” Seetch-Hopkins said.

Anyone with information about this shooting is encouraged to contact Metroparks Police at 440-333-4911.