Central State University in Wilberforce is deeply saddened by the murder of Na’kia Crawford, who recently graduated from North High School in Akron and committed to Ohio’s only public historically black college.

A university spokesman issued the following statement in a media release:

“Na’kia, who had committed to attend Central State in the fall to study computer science, possessed the intelligence and promise that any university would have eagerly welcomed among its student body. Sadly, this tragedy has robbed the world of seeing what Na’kia could have achieved at Central and in life.

The entire Central State University community mourns her loss and sends our deepest condolences to her family and friends.” 

Crawford was 18 years old.

From Cleveland 19 News:

Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan announced on Tuesday that a $50,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the capture of the shooting suspect wanted for killing Crawford, who recently graduated high school and committed to Central State University.

Her death has attracted national attention, thanks to fellow Akron native Lebron James, taking to Twitter to say that he’s not letting investigation into Crawford’s death slow down.

https://twitter.com/kingjames/status/1273061702670532608?s=21

“Nah we ain’t letting it slow down!!” he said, adding, “No Sir, Not Me 🗣🗣🗣. Somebody know [sic] something for sure.”

We at HBCU Buzz are also deeply saddened by the murder of Crawford and will be sure to keep the HBCU community updated as soon as further information about this case becomes available. We’re praying for her family and friends and all of those affected by this sudden and untimely death.

If you have any information in regards to this case, contact the Akron Police Department at ‭+1 (330) 375-2552.

Update: The Akron Police Department has identified three suspects — Adarus Black, Jaion Bivins and Janisha George — in connection with the murder of Na’kia Crawford, according to Cleveland News 19.