The Youngstown community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 17-year-old Charles Pullen Jr., who was fatally shot earlier this month on the city’s south side. The tragic incident has left family, friends, and residents in deep sorrow as they try to come to terms with the loss of a young life taken far too soon.

According to the Mahoning County Coroner’s Office, Pullen Jr. has been officially identified as the victim of the deadly shooting that occurred on April 1, 2026. The confirmation brings some closure to the identity of the victim, but many questions still remain about the circumstances that led to the fatal violence.

Officers with the Youngstown Police Department responded to reports of gunfire around 11 p.m. in the 100 block of East Judson Avenue. Upon arrival, they found the teenage victim suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Emergency responders acted quickly, transporting him to a nearby hospital in a desperate attempt to save his life.

Despite those efforts, Pullen Jr. later succumbed to his injuries, leaving his loved ones devastated. His death has deeply impacted the Youngstown community, highlighting the ongoing concern over gun violence and the toll it continues to take on young people and their families.

An autopsy was conducted by the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the exact cause of death and assist investigators in understanding the full details of the case. Officials say the findings will play an important role as detectives continue to gather evidence and piece together what happened that night.

The investigation remains active, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward. As the community grieves, many are holding Pullen Jr.’s family in their thoughts and prayers, remembering a life full of potential that was tragically cut short. His loss serves as a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for peace within communities.