TOLEDO, Ohio – Three juveniles have been arrested in connection to the brutal murder of 18-year-old Joaquin Simmons, who was dragged by a car during a robbery in late March. The Toledo Police Department announced on April 14 that two 17-year-olds and a 16-year-old have been taken into custody. Each is facing a murder charge in the death of Simmons, a Woodward High School student.
The incident occurred on March 29, when police responded to reports of a robbery at the intersection of Streicher and Mulberry streets. Upon arrival, officers found Simmons lying in the road, severely injured. He was rushed to a local hospital, where he was diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury. Despite medical efforts, Simmons succumbed to his injuries on April 2.
According to investigators, Simmons had arranged to meet a group of individuals to sell a pair of Balenciaga shoes through Facebook Marketplace. Family members of the victim shared that an argument broke out over the price of the shoes, leading to one of the suspects allegedly grabbing the shoes from Simmons and getting into a car.
As the vehicle sped away, Simmons reportedly held on to the passenger side of the car, attempting to retain the stolen shoes. The situation escalated when one of the suspects allegedly struck Simmons in the head with a gun, before pushing him off the moving vehicle. The car continued to flee the scene, leaving Simmons severely injured.
The Toledo Police Department’s investigation led to the arrests of the three juveniles. Authorities have not yet released further details about the suspects, but the case remains under active investigation.
The death of Joaquin Simmons has left his family and the community devastated. His family, in particular, has expressed their grief and shock over the senseless nature of the crime. As the legal process unfolds, the community continues to grapple with the loss of a young life taken too soon.
This case highlights the dangers of online transactions and the tragic consequences of a robbery turned violent. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward.
As the investigation progresses, the Toledo Police Department is committed to ensuring that justice is served for Simmons and his family.