Teenager Shot and Killed After Attending Violence Prevention Boxing Program
A 14-year-old boy, Rakeem Blair Jr., who had recently joined an after-school boxing program at Lord's Gym in East Price Hill aimed at deterring youth from gun violence, was shot and killed shortly after attending the program. A 16-year-old has…
Cincinnati, OH, August 26, 2026 —
A 14-year-old boy, Rakeem Blair Jr., was fatally shot shortly after participating in an after-school boxing program designed to steer young people away from gun violence. Blair Jr. had recently joined the program at Lord’s Gym, located in the East Price Hill neighborhood.
The incident has led to a 16-year-old being charged in connection with Blair Jr.’s death. Specific details regarding the circumstances of the shooting and the nature of the charges were not provided.
Gym staff and participants recalled Rakeem Blair Jr. as having a significant positive influence during his brief involvement with the program. In the wake of his death, those associated with Lord’s Gym have expressed a commitment to continuing the boxing program, dedicating its future efforts to Blair Jr.’s memory.
The after-school boxing program at Lord’s Gym was established with the goal of providing a constructive outlet for youth, aiming to prevent their involvement in gun violence. The tragic death of Rakeem Blair Jr. underscores the complex challenges faced by such community initiatives.
Story summarized from the original created by Jay Shakur on www.wcpo.com, see more information here.