At a Glance
- Symini Rai Moore, 15, was fatally shot on Jan. 23 in an apartment in Northwood, Ohio.
- 18-year-old Jakob Heintzelman was arrested and charged with reckless homicide.
- A GoFundMe campaign has raised more than $20,000 in two days to cover funeral costs.
- Why it matters: The case highlights the dangers of gun violence in small communities and the rapid mobilization of support for victims’ families.
A 15-year-old Ohio honor-roll student was killed in an apartment shooting over the weekend, and an 18-year-old suspect has now been charged with reckless homicide in connection with her death.
The Tragic Event
On Jan. 23, Symini Rai Moore was shot inside an apartment in Northwood, Ohio, according to local news outlets WTVG, The Toledo Blade, and WTOL. Police arrived late that evening to find Moore with a gunshot wound and pronounced her dead at the scene.
Lake Township Police Chief Mark Hummer told WTVG that four people were present in the apartment: Moore, the suspect, the suspect’s girlfriend, and another male. Heintzelman claimed he was cleaning his gun when it discharged.
Suspect and Charges
Jakob Heintzelman, 18, of Northwood was arrested and charged with reckless homicide. Online jail records show he is being held on a $85,000 bond. WBNS reported that he was arraigned on Monday, when a judge set his bond at $75,000 and ordered electronic monitoring if he is released.
The charge stems from the fact that Heintzelman’s firearm fired without intent to kill, yet it caused Moore’s death. The court has not yet determined whether the discharge was accidental or negligent.
Community Response
Symini Rai Moore was an honor-roll student at Woodmore High School and participated in cheerleading, basketball, track, volleyball, wrestling, Future Farmers of America, and choir. She also worked at Granny’s Kitchen, a family-owned restaurant in Woodville.
Christy Donnell, Moore’s former preschool teacher, described her as “very sweet, very kind” and noted that she was protective of her younger brother.
Wood County Sheriff’s Office officials said the town is shaken. “It’s tragic,” said Donnell.
Fundraising Efforts
A GoFundMe page was created to help Moore’s family with funeral and memorial expenses. The fundraiser, which highlights Moore’s kindness and her dream of becoming an OB nurse, has raised more than $20,000 in just two days.
The page also lists Moore’s surviving family members: mother Brittany Taylor; sisters Red “Lorealee” and Charlotte; brothers Vincent and Emmanuel; and extended relatives. Her father, Jay Moore, had predeceased her.
Key Highlights from the Fundraiser
- $20,000+ raised in two days
- Supports funeral and memorial costs
- Emphasizes Moore’s compassion and future aspirations
Family and Legacy
Moore’s family operates Granny’s Kitchen in Woodville, and her death has sent shockwaves through the Sandusky County community. Her mother, Brittany Taylor, has spoken publicly about the loss, describing her daughter’s smile as “the kind that lit up a room instantly.”
The community’s response includes both emotional support and financial aid, reflecting the tight-knit nature of the town.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Jan. 23 | Moore shot and pronounced dead at the apartment |
| Jan. 24 | Heintzelman arrested and charged with reckless homicide |
| Jan. 26 | Fundraiser reaches $20,000 in two days |
Key Takeaways
- Symini Rai Moore’s death underscores the impact of gun violence on young lives.
- The suspect faces a high bond and electronic monitoring.
- Community fundraising demonstrates solidarity and the importance of collective support for grieving families.
- The case remains under investigation, with the legal process ongoing.
