AKRON HOMICIDE SUSPECT ARRESTED BY U.S. MARSHALS IN ATLANTA, GEORGIA

AKRON HOMICIDE SUSPECT ARRESTED BY U.S. MARSHALS IN ATLANTA, GEORGIA

AKRON, Ohio — November 4, 2025 — The U.S. Marshals Service has announced the arrest of 37-year-old Travonte D. Griffin, a homicide suspect wanted by the Akron Police Department in connection with the fatal shooting of 31-year-old Damere T. Boddie. Griffin was apprehended on Monday afternoon in Atlanta, Georgia, by members of the U.S. Marshals-led Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force (SERFTF), bringing a significant development in a case that has gripped the Akron community for weeks.

According to authorities, Griffin had been the subject of an intense manhunt since an arrest warrant was issued for him in connection with the deadly shooting that occurred earlier this fall. Investigators believe Griffin fled Ohio shortly after the incident, leading local and federal agencies to launch a coordinated interstate search effort to track him down.

The breakthrough came when members of the Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force, acting on credible intelligence, located Griffin at an apartment complex on the outskirts of Atlanta. Officials confirmed that he was taken into custody without incident, and he now faces extradition back to Ohio to face homicide and weapons charges.

“This arrest represents the tireless collaboration between federal and local law enforcement agencies,” said Peter Elliott, U.S. Marshal for the Northern District of Ohio. “When violent fugitives attempt to run or hide, they quickly learn there’s nowhere safe to go. We’re proud of the teamwork and dedication that led to bringing Mr. Griffin into custody.”

The fatal shooting of Damere T. Boddie, 31, occurred in late September in Akron’s West Side neighborhood. Akron Police officers responded to reports of gunfire and found Boddie suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts by emergency responders, he was pronounced deceased at the scene. Investigators later identified Griffin as the primary suspect after collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses who linked him to the crime.

Authorities have not publicly disclosed a motive, but they believe the shooting may have stemmed from a personal dispute. Griffin’s arrest brings a sense of relief to both law enforcement and members of the Akron community, who have been anxiously awaiting progress in the investigation.

Akron Police Chief Brian Harding commended the U.S. Marshals and partner agencies for their swift action, stating, “The arrest of Travonte Griffin is a crucial step toward justice for Mr. Boddie and his family. We are deeply grateful for the collaboration between local, state, and federal authorities who worked relentlessly to ensure this suspect was found and taken into custody.”

Boddie’s family, still grieving the devastating loss, expressed gratitude that the suspect is now in custody. “Nothing will bring Damere back,” said a relative, “but knowing that the person responsible will face justice gives us a small measure of peace.”

The U.S. Marshals Service confirmed that Griffin will remain in custody in Georgia pending extradition proceedings. Once returned to Ohio, he is expected to be held at the Summit County Jail while awaiting trial.

The U.S. Marshals Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force, which operates across Georgia and Alabama, is made up of federal, state, and local law enforcement officers dedicated to locating and apprehending the most violent fugitives. The agency emphasized that Griffin’s capture underscores the effectiveness of interagency cooperation and the Marshals’ ongoing commitment to public safety.

As the legal process moves forward, Akron residents are reminded of the importance of community cooperation in helping law enforcement solve violent crimes. The arrest of Travonte D. Griffin marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice for Damere T. Boddie, whose memory continues to be honored by family and friends.

Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with additional information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Akron Police Department’s Detective Bureau or submit tips anonymously through Summit County Crime Stoppers.

With Griffin now behind bars, Akron officials hope this arrest will bring a measure of closure to a community still healing from a senseless act of violence—and serve as a reminder that justice, no matter how long it takes, will always be pursued.