Springfield Community Mourns Keantra Mays, 26, Killed in Tragic Mass Shooting
SPRINGFIELD, OH — A tragic mass shooting late Saturday night in Springfield has left one person dead and several others injured, igniting a multi-agency investigation into the senseless act of violence. The victim who lost her life in the attack has been identified as 26-year-old Keantra Mays, a beloved daughter, friend, and member of the Springfield community.
The incident unfolded just before midnight on June 28, when gunfire erupted during what witnesses described as a large neighborhood gathering on the city’s south side. According to the Springfield Police Division, officers responded to the 1300 block of Linden Avenue following multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired. Upon arrival, authorities encountered a chaotic scene with several individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.
Keantra Mays was found unresponsive at the scene and was tragically pronounced dead despite lifesaving efforts. At least six other individuals, ranging in age from their late teens to early thirties, sustained varying injuries. They were transported to local hospitals, and as of Sunday morning, several remain in critical but stable condition.
The sudden outbreak of violence has sent shockwaves through Springfield, a city already grappling with the ripple effects of increased gun-related incidents in recent years. As authorities work to determine the circumstances leading up to the shooting, the community is left reeling from the loss of a vibrant young woman whose life was cut tragically short.
Keantra Mays was more than a name in a tragic headline—she was a loving soul, known for her warmth, quick wit, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. She worked in healthcare and had dreams of becoming a nurse, driven by a deep desire to help others. Those closest to her say she had a unique way of making people feel seen and valued, whether through her caring touch at work or her unforgettable laugh that could brighten any room.
“She was the light of our lives,” said her mother, Regina Mays. “She was kind, determined, and always had a heart for others. Our world is shattered without her.”
As tributes continue to pour in on social media, friends and family remember Keantra not only for her compassion but for her resilience. She was someone who never gave up—even in difficult times—and encouraged others to keep pushing forward. Her loss leaves an enormous void in the hearts of those who loved her and in the community that now mourns her.
Springfield police are leading the investigation, with assistance from state and federal agencies. Officials have yet to confirm a motive, and no arrests have been made as of Sunday afternoon. Authorities are urging anyone with information, video footage, or eyewitness accounts to come forward, emphasizing the need for community cooperation in the pursuit of justice.
“This was a devastating and senseless act of violence,” said Springfield Police Chief Allison Elliott. “Our hearts go out to Keantra’s family and to all those injured. We will do everything in our power to ensure those responsible are held accountable.”
City leaders and local activists have called for unity in the wake of the tragedy and are renewing demands for solutions to the escalating gun violence in the region. Plans are underway for a community vigil in Keantra’s memory, and local churches have opened their doors for grief counseling and support.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched by Keantra’s family to help cover funeral expenses and support her loved ones during this time of mourning. Organizers hope the fund will also help launch a youth mentorship initiative in Keantra’s name—one focused on promoting peace, opportunity, and resilience among Springfield’s youth.
As the community comes together in sorrow, one message is clear: Keantra Mays was loved, and her life mattered. Her name will not be forgotten.