CLEVELAND, Ohio — Authorities have identified a 20-year-old man who died after being found suffering from a gunshot wound near a highway exit ramp early Thursday morning. The incident has prompted a homicide investigation by Cleveland police as detectives work to determine how and why the young man was shot.
The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victim as Johnathan Payne, a Cleveland resident. His death has raised concerns about violence in the area, especially during the early morning hours when traffic is light but activity can still be present near major roadways.
According to officials, the incident came to light around 2:30 a.m. Thursday when Cleveland Emergency Medical Services crews spotted Payne near the highway on West 25th Street and View Road. Authorities say Payne was found near an exit ramp and appeared to be suffering from at least one gunshot wound. The circumstances that led him to that location remain unclear.
EMS crews immediately contacted police and began rendering first aid at the scene. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, Payne was transported to MetroHealth Medical Center for emergency treatment. Despite life-saving efforts by medical staff, he was pronounced dead a short time after arriving at the hospital.
Cleveland police secured the area near the highway exit ramp as part of the investigation. Detectives are now working to piece together the events that led to the shooting, including where the gunfire may have occurred and how Payne ended up near the roadway. Authorities have not released information about possible suspects or whether the shooting happened nearby or elsewhere.
The case is being handled by detectives with the Cleveland Police Homicide Unit, who continue to gather evidence and review any available surveillance footage from the surrounding area. No arrests have been announced, and investigators have not said whether they believe the shooting was targeted. Police are asking anyone with information related to the incident to come forward as the investigation remains active.
