AKRON, OH – Authorities in Summit County are investigating the tragic deaths of two individuals found in an Akron home on the evening of March 17. Akron police officers responded to a welfare check at a residence on South Highland Avenue around 7:30 p.m., where they discovered a 26-year-old man and a 44-year-old woman in a bedroom, both with apparent gunshot wounds.
The woman has been identified as Jessica Leigh Violand, 44, of Elyria. The Summit County Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed that Jessica died as a result of a gunshot wound to the head, ruling her death a homicide.
The man has been identified as 26-year-old Elliot Aletesa of Akron. He, too, succumbed to a gunshot wound to the head which was ruled as suicide, and both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene at 9:03 p.m.
Jessica was remembered by those who knew her for her warmth and caring nature. She leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness, though those close to her are struggling to understand the circumstances surrounding her untimely death.
The Summit County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. Authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward as they work to determine the details of what transpired.
Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of Jessica Violand and Elliot Aletesa during this difficult time. Funeral arrangements for both individuals are being planned, and further details will be shared as they become available.
May they both rest in peace.
