TOLEDO, Ohio — A 14-year-old boy tragically lost his life Saturday night after being stabbed in Toledo. The victim, identified as Xander Epps, ran to a nearby McDonald’s for help following the attack, but despite medical intervention, he later succumbed to his injuries at a hospital, according to reports from CBS affiliate WTOL-11.
Police responded to the McDonald’s restaurant along N. Summit Street near 124th Street shortly before 8:30 p.m., after receiving reports that a teen had sought assistance following a stabbing. Witnesses inside the restaurant recounted that Xander appeared distressed and bleeding when he entered, seeking immediate help from employees and customers. At least eight people were present inside the McDonald’s at the time.
Authorities report that Xander was transported from the scene to a local hospital, where he was treated for severe stab wounds. Tragically, medical personnel were unable to save him, and he was pronounced dead shortly afterward.
Following the incident, police arrested and charged a 16-year-old suspect with murder. The identity of the suspect has not been released, as the case is under ongoing investigation. Authorities are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the stabbing, including what led to the confrontation and the sequence of events prior to the teen seeking help at the McDonald’s.
The stabbing has sent shockwaves through the Toledo community, leaving family, friends, and neighbors grappling with grief and disbelief. Residents have expressed concern over youth violence in the area, noting that incidents like these highlight the urgent need for community awareness, safety measures, and preventive programs to protect teenagers.
Law enforcement continues to gather information, interviewing witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage from the surrounding area. Officials have urged anyone with additional details about the incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
The tragic death of Xander Epps serves as a somber reminder of the vulnerability of young people to sudden acts of violence and the importance of community and law enforcement working together to prevent such heartbreaking incidents.