26-Year-Old Cole Lepkowski Fatally Shot in West Toledo; Police Investigating Late-Night Homicide
Late Sunday night, Toledo police were dispatched to the 2900 block of West Lincolnshire Boulevard after receiving reports of gunfire. First responders arrived at approximately 10:14 p.m. Sunday, June 29, and found a 26-year-old male suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite immediate efforts to save him, he later died at the scene.
🧑🦱 Victim Identification
The victim has been identified as Cole Lepkowski, a 26-year-old man residing in the Toledo area. Local authorities confirmed his identity during police briefings, though no details regarding his background, occupation, or affiliations have been disclosed pending family notification and further investigative steps.
👮 Police Response & Investigation
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Crime scene response
Detectives from the Toledo Police Department’s homicide unit were on-site shortly after the shooting. They processed the scene, collected shell casings, canvassed the neighborhood, and interviewed potential witnesses. -
Ongoing inquiry
As of the latest update, no suspect has been publicly identified or arrested. Authorities are actively reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses, and urging anyone with relevant information or video footage to come forward. -
Public safety appeal
Police have asked local residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Officers will be maintaining increased patrols in the West Lincolnshire Blvd. area over the next few days.
🏘️ Community Reaction
Neighbors report being rattled by the incident. West Toledo is generally considered quiet and tight-knit, making this rare act of violence particularly unsettling. Residents have expressed concern and are calling for peace and justice within the community.
⚖️ Legal and Procedural Follow‑Up
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The incident is classified as a homicide and is undergoing a full-scale police investigation.
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An autopsy was ordered by the Lucas County Coroner’s Office to determine the cause and specifics of Lepkowski’s death.
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No charges have been filed yet; once a suspect is identified, those details will be released.
🧭 What’s Next?
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Public tips: Anyone who witnessed the shooting or has unshared surveillance should contact Toledo PD or submit tips anonymously via the department’s tip line.
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Surveillance footage: Residents and nearby businesses are encouraged to check security cameras or doorbell video from Sunday evening between 9:45–10:30 p.m.
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Community support: Local officials are coordinating with neighborhood groups and community leaders to provide support services and to discourage retaliation.
📢 Why This Matters
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Violence in a peaceful neighborhood: West Lincolnshire Blvd. is not typically a hotspot for crime, which makes this shooting particularly alarming.
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A young life lost: At just 26, Lepkowski’s death is a loss felt deeply by family, friends, and the community.
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Police dependency on public cooperation: As with many such cases, swift progress hinges on community members coming forward with information.
🧷 Resources & Contacts
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Toledo PD tip line: Available 24/7 (non-emergency number or anonymous tip hotline).
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Lucas County Coroner’s Office: For inquiries about the autopsy and official medical examiner findings.
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Local grief counseling: Community support groups and local faith-based organizations stand ready to assist affected families and neighbors.
While the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful that new leads will surface, justice will be served, and collective healing can begin. We’ll continue monitoring this case and will provide updates when more information becomes available.
If you’d like updates, coverage of community reaction, or tips on how to stay safe in your neighborhood, just let me know.