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Akron Officer Who Shot 15-Year-Old Jazmir Tucker Had Prior Deadly Force Incidents
The Akron police officer who fatally shot 15-year-old Jazmir Tucker on Thanksgiving, identified as Davon Fields, has a history of involvement in deadly use-of-force incidents, city records reveal.
Officer Davon Fields and the Thanksgiving Shooting
On Tuesday, Akron officials released records showing Fields’ involvement in two prior fatal police shootings. Fields, a five-year veteran of the Akron Police Department (APD), is currently on paid administrative leave while the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) examines the Thanksgiving shooting.
Bodycam footage from the incident shows officers responding to gunshots near East Avenue and Vernon Odom Boulevard. Fields exited his cruiser, encountered Tucker, and fired his rifle. However, the footage left key questions unanswered, including why Fields fired, how many shots were discharged, and why officers delayed for eight minutes before approaching Tucker to render aid. Police recovered a firearm from Tucker’s zipped coat pocket and matched it to shell casings at the scene.
Fields’ Career and Prior Incidents
Hired by APD in December 2019, Fields previously expressed a desire to change perceptions of law enforcement. Early evaluations praised his judgment, communication, and compassion. Fields served as a SWAT team member and field training officer, with assignments focused on reducing gun violence.
Fields was involved in two high-profile shootings before Jazmir’s death:
Jayland Walker Shooting (June 2022): Fields witnessed the fatal shooting of Jayland Walker by eight officers, who collectively fired 94 rounds. Though Fields did not fire his weapon, he was present during the aftermath, where bodycam footage showed him aiming his rifle at Walker after the gunfire ceased.
Lawrence Rodgers Shooting (February 2022): Fields and another officer fatally shot
21-year-old Lawrence Rodgers during a chaotic domestic call. Bodycam footage showed Rodgers with a handgun, ignoring commands to drop his weapon. Both officers fired, striking Rodgers multiple times. The shooting was later deemed justified by APD and BCI.
Lawrence Rodgers Shooting
Ongoing Investigation and Community Concerns
BCI is leading the investigation into Jazmir’s death, with findings to be reviewed by the Ohio Attorney General and Akron Police Department’s Office of Professional Standards. The incident has reignited concerns over police violence and accountability in Akron.
At the time of his hiring, Fields stated he wanted to demonstrate that not all officers are aggressive. However, his involvement in multiple fatal encounters raises questions about use-of-force policies and officer training.
Stay updated on the investigation into Jazmir Tucker’s tragic death and the broader implications for police accountability in Akron. Join the conversation and demand justice and reform.
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