TOLEDO, Ohio — 26-Year-Old Cole Lepkowski Fatally Shot in West Toledo Neighborhood Late Sunday Night
A tragic act of violence has left a family grieving and a community shaken after 26-year-old Cole Lepkowski was fatally shot late Sunday night in a quiet West Toledo neighborhood. The incident occurred around 10:14 p.m. on June 29, 2025, on West Lincolnshire Boulevard, according to the Toledo Police Department.
Officers responded swiftly to reports of gunfire in the area and arrived at the scene to find a male victim suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite the efforts of emergency medical personnel, Lepkowski was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have confirmed his identity and notified next of kin.
The shooting has stunned residents of the typically peaceful neighborhood, located just off Sylvania Avenue in Toledo’s west side. Several community members reported hearing gunshots ring out late into the night, followed by the arrival of numerous emergency vehicles.
An Ongoing Investigation
As of Monday morning, Toledo Police have not released details regarding potential suspects or a motive for the shooting. Investigators were seen canvassing the neighborhood overnight and into the early hours of Monday, collecting surveillance footage, speaking with witnesses, and gathering evidence from the scene.
Officials have stated that the investigation remains active, and they are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 419-255-1111.
The Toledo Police Department has been working diligently to address gun violence throughout the city, which has seen a rise in fatal shootings in recent months. This latest incident adds to a growing number of tragic losses affecting families across the region.
Remembering Cole Lepkowski
Although little has been publicly shared about Lepkowski’s personal background, friends and family members began sharing memories and tributes across social media Monday morning, describing him as a kind-hearted, funny, and loyal friend.
“He always showed up for people,” one friend wrote in a tribute post. “Cole had his struggles, like many of us, but he was trying to get things right. He didn’t deserve this. None of us did.”
Others shared memories of Cole’s love for music, his goofy sense of humor, and the way he could always be counted on for support. A childhood friend wrote, “We grew up on the same street. I’ll never forget how he stuck up for me when nobody else did. That’s who Cole was.”
Several family members have called for justice, pleading with the community to come forward with any information that might lead to an arrest.
A Community Tired of Violence
Cole’s death marks yet another shooting in Toledo—part of a broader pattern of violence that has gripped many urban neighborhoods. Community leaders, local clergy, and anti-violence activists continue to push for increased investment in prevention efforts, youth programs, and community policing.
“We’re tired of seeing our young people dying in the streets,” said a local activist speaking to reporters Monday morning. “Cole was 26 years old. He had a life ahead of him. He was someone’s son, someone’s friend. This has to stop.”
Local residents have expressed frustration and fear over the continued surge in gun-related violence. Several said they are calling for additional street lighting, security cameras, and patrols to deter crime and ensure the safety of their neighborhoods.
Next Steps
Toledo Police are expected to release more information as the investigation progresses. In the meantime, grief counselors and victim support services are being offered to those affected by the tragedy. A candlelight vigil is reportedly being organized by Cole’s family and friends and may take place later this week on West Lincolnshire Boulevard, near the site of the shooting.
Anyone with leads or tips is urged to assist law enforcement by contacting the Toledo Police Department directly or submitting information to Crime Stoppers. Even the smallest detail could be critical in solving the case and bringing closure to a grieving family.
Final Thoughts
As Toledo mourns the loss of yet another young life, Cole Lepkowski’s name now joins the growing list of individuals taken too soon by violence. He will be remembered by those who loved him not for the way he died, but for the way he lived—with loyalty, humor, and a heart that cared for others.
