A tragic incident in West Akron has left a 15-year-old boy dead and a 14-year-old facing serious juvenile charges after a family dog attack escalated into gunfire. Josiah Harris was fatally shot by his friend while trying to intervene during the mauling on June 30, 2026.

According to the Akron Police Department, the 14-year-old suspect arrived unannounced at Harris’s home in the 1200 block of Packard Drive. The family’s Cane Corso dog apparently perceived him as an intruder and attacked, latching onto his left arm. In self-defense, the teen drew a concealed firearm and fired multiple shots. While some bullets struck the dog, others unintentionally hit Harris in the torso as he attempted to pull the animal away.

First responders rushed Harris to Akron Children’s Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The 14-year-old was treated for severe bite wounds at the same facility, and the injured dog received emergency veterinary care.

Following a thorough investigation, the 14-year-old was charged on July 9 with negligent homicide, carrying a concealed weapon, improperly discharging a firearm, and tampering with evidence (the gun was not recovered at the scene). He is being held at the Summit County Juvenile Detention Center.

The case has saddened the community, with Harris remembered as a beloved classmate and friend. Authorities continue to investigate the full circumstances, including how the teen obtained the firearm.

Sources: NY POST