Lavia Paul Wanted in Connection with Fatal Mill Creek Falls Shooting—Police Seek Arrest in the Death of Cleveland Mother of Two as Community Calls for Safety and Justice
CLEVELAND, OH — An arrest warrant has been issued for Lavia M. Paul, 23, of Cleveland, following the fatal shooting of Kiara Jackson, a 25‑year‑old mother of two, near the entrance to Mill Creek Falls early Wednesday morning. Cleveland Metroparks Police have mobilized local and federal law enforcement resources, urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in locating Paul amid intensifying community outrage and grief.
Incident Overview: Early Morning Horror at Mill Creek Falls
At approximately 3:40 a.m. Wednesday, officers responding to reports of gunfire near the park entrance at Broadway Avenue discovered Jackson unresponsive with an apparent gunshot wound. Medical personnel pronounced her dead at the scene. Authorities say Jackson had been with a group of people before the shooting occurred. (cleveland19.com)
Within hours, Cleveland Metroparks Police issued an arrest warrant for Paul, suspecting her of involvement in Jackson’s death. They confirmed her identity and highlighted her as the primary subject of the ongoing investigation. (cleveland19.com)
The People Involved: Names, Lives, and Roles
- Lavia M. Paul – Cleveland resident, age 23, named explicitly in the arrest warrant. Police believe Paul and Jackson were together with others prior to the shooting. Authorities continue to seek Paul’s whereabouts.
- Kiara Jackson – A 25‑year‑old Cleveland native and mother of two young children (ages 6 and 7), identified by the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office. Described as loving, caring, and deeply dedicated to her family. (news5cleveland.com)
Community Shaken: Impact on Cleveland and Metropark Visitors
Mill Creek Falls, a scenic enclave within Cleveland Metroparks, is normally a tranquil destination for families and nature lovers. The horrific shooting so near daybreak has shattered that sense of safety.
Cleveland Metroparks Police Chief Kelly Stillman noted the park had been closed since 11 p.m., and Jackson and her group arrived around 3 a.m. (news5cleveland.com) Stillman emphasized that the park is usually well-patrolled and that police are taking the incident with utmost seriousness.
A family member of Jackson shared her grief:
“She was one of the ones that… never pick and choose sides… a good friend to all of them,” reflecting the deep loss felt by Jackson’s large, supportive family. (news5cleveland.com)
Manhunt Underway: Police Call for Public Tips
The suspect has not been found. Metroparks Police, in cooperation with the U.S. Marshals Service, have called for any witnesses or tipsters—anonymously or directly—to contact 440‑333‑4911 or local police agencies. (news5cleveland.com)
Chief Stillman reassured the public:
“We don’t tolerate this type of behavior … we do everything possible to make sure it doesn’t happen again.” (news5cleveland.com)
Police urge Clevelanders to report any sightings of Paul or suspicious activity related to the incident.
Searching for Answers: What Led to the Shooting?
Although specifics remain under investigation, authorities confirmed that Jackson and Paul were among a group gathered at the park after an all-day event earlier Tuesday. The group arrived after the 11 p.m. park closure. (news5cleveland.com)
Police are determined to understand the timeline and relationships involved—whether the shooting stemmed from an argument, a confrontation, or other provocation. No additional injuries have been reported, and it’s unclear whether any other firearms were involved.
The Victim’s Voice: Remembering a Young Mother
Jackson’s passing has pierced the hearts of Cleveland residents, former classmates, and park visitors. Described as grounded, loving, and genuinely kind, she made her family proud and enriched the lives of others.
Her sister Deshawnte Jackson, speaking through tears, reflected:
“I just never picture this… She was a fun person… We’re a big family, we’ll get through it.” (news5cleveland.com)
For Jackson’s two children, the loss is immeasurable. In the days ahead, her extended family has rallied to provide care and comfort, while local groups have offered financial and emotional support.
Safety Questions Raised: Crime in Metroparks
This shocking event has prompted community leaders and parkgoers alike to question safety protocols in public spaces after hours. Even though parks are officially closed overnight, park entrances, lighting, and security procedures are under renewed scrutiny.
Chief Stillman emphasized that police patrols are intensive and the park is safe—but acknowledged the need for public vigilance. Authorities have committed to reviewing park policy, potentially increasing signage, patrol frequency, or access barriers.
Broader Implications: Violence, Guns & Parks
The shooting highlights concerns about gun violence encroaching into public and recreational areas. Nationally, similar tragedies have led to policy debates on surveillance, funding for law enforcement, and community-based violence intervention.
In Cleveland, advocates argue that without improved transparency, increased lighting, and better community-police collaboration, public spaces may fall short of safeguarding residents, especially after hours.
Investigation and Forensics: Piecing Together the Timeline
Crime scene investigators continue working at dawn at Mill Creek Falls, documenting evidence, collecting shell casings, and retrieving surveillance data from nearby cameras.
The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner confirmed Jackson’s identity and cited gunshot as the cause of death. Pending toxicology and ballistic tests will contribute to arrest warrants and potential indictments.
Holding Suspects Accountable: Legal Ramifications
With an arrest warrant now active, Paul faces charges of murder. The Metroparks Police have pledged to execute the warrant promptly.
If apprehended, Paul will likely be held without bail due to alleged violent circumstances and flight risk. Prosecutors will build a case leveraging witness testimony, forensic evidence, and any recovered firearm.
Community Response: Healing Amid Heartbreak
In the wake of Jackson’s death, Clevelanders have begun organizing vigils and solidarity gatherings. Parks groups, families, and advocacy organizations are preparing initiatives aimed at honoring Jackson and preventing future tragedies in public spaces.
Some potential measures under consideration include:
- Memorial or remembrance planting at Mill Creek Falls
- Community forums on park safety and violence prevention
- Increased volunteer patrols and neighborhood watch efforts
- Public awareness campaigns around reporting after-hours activities
The rebuilding of public trust hinges on inclusive, transparent safety strategies.
Looking Forward: Prevention, Accountability & Justice
Justice for Jackson demands more than legal resolution. Cleveland must confront broader systemic issues—poverty, domestic conflict, alcohol use, and uneven policing—that place individuals at risk beyond daylight hours.
Enhanced infrastructure, community-led initiatives, youth outreach programs, and focused behavioral services must accompany law enforcement efforts. As Chief Stillman reaffirmed:
“The Metroparks are very safe…but we are aggressively investigating this… and we don’t tolerate this behavior.”
