Heartbreaking Murder-Suicide Claims the Lives of Jessica Leigh Violand and Elliot Hareem Altesa in Akron’s Highland Square Neighborhood

AKRON, OH – March 19, 2025 – The Akron community is reeling after the tragic deaths of Jessica Leigh Violand and Elliot Hareem Altesa, who were found dead in what police suspect to be a murder-suicide on the evening of March 17, 2025. The incident, which has left family, friends, and neighbors in shock and mourning, unfolded in the Highland Square neighborhood of Akron, a tight-knit community where many are still trying to come to terms with the senseless loss.

Jessica Leigh Violand, a 44-year-old woman from Elyria, and 26-year-old Elliot Hareem Altesa, a resident of Akron, were discovered by Akron police in an apartment located in the 20 block of South Highland Avenue after a concerned individual requested a welfare check. The caller had been unable to reach Violand for several hours, which prompted them to contact authorities. When police arrived at the scene around 7:30 p.m. on Monday evening, they entered the apartment and found both victims deceased in a bedroom.

According to the Summit County Medical Examiner’s Office, Violand died from a gunshot wound to the head. Authorities confirmed that Altesa fatally shot Violand before turning the weapon on himself. Altesa’s death was ruled as a result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The Akron Police Department has since launched an investigation into the incident, though the motive behind this tragic event remains unknown.

A Community in Shock and Grief

The news of Jessica Violand and Elliot Altesa’s deaths has sent ripples of shock and sorrow throughout Akron, Elyria, and surrounding communities. While the investigation continues, one thing remains certain – this senseless act of violence has left a trail of devastation in its wake, particularly for the families and loved ones of the victims.

For Jessica’s family, friends, and the people who knew her in Elyria, her untimely death has created a deep sense of loss. Described by those closest to her as kind-hearted, compassionate, and full of life, Jessica’s sudden and violent death has been hard to fathom. She was a beloved member of her community, and her passing has left many people struggling to find meaning in such a tragedy. Family members are holding on to cherished memories of her warmth and her positive influence on others, but the void left by her absence is impossible to ignore. Those who knew her well remember her as a woman who always tried to bring joy to others and made a lasting impact on everyone she encountered.

Jessica’s family is heartbroken, trying to comprehend how such a vibrant woman could be taken so suddenly and violently. The unexpected nature of her death has created a cloud of confusion and anguish. As they grieve, her loved ones have asked for privacy during this difficult time as they work through the pain of losing someone so dear.

On the other hand, Elliot’s family is also grappling with the devastating aftermath of this tragedy. No one could have foreseen that the young man they loved and cared for would end his own life in such a tragic and violent manner. Elliot’s loved ones are struggling with their own feelings of sorrow, disbelief, and confusion. While they are left to process the shock of losing someone they cherished, they must also face the painful reality of how their loved one’s actions have affected the lives of others. The emotional toll of both the deaths and the aftermath is difficult for his family and friends to navigate, as they attempt to understand the events that led to such a tragic ending.

The Aftermath: Seeking Answers

As of now, the Akron Police Department is still investigating the details surrounding the deaths of Jessica Violand and Elliot Altesa. While authorities have confirmed that this incident appears to be a murder-suicide, the specific reasons behind the tragedy remain unclear. Investigators are working to determine whether domestic issues, personal struggles, or other factors contributed to the tragic outcome.

Authorities have not yet released any information about the relationship between Jessica and Elliot, and their investigation continues as they seek to piece together the events that led to this devastating loss. The lack of clarity surrounding the motive has left many in the community asking questions about what could have driven someone to take such drastic and violent actions.

Despite the confusion, Akron police remain committed to finding answers and bringing clarity to the families affected by this incident. Detectives are exploring all avenues, including gathering witness testimonies, reviewing any possible communications between the victims, and investigating any recent developments that may have led to this tragedy.

Anyone with information related to the case is urged to come forward and assist the investigation. The Akron Police Department encourages the public to contact their detectives at 330-375-2490 or 330-375-2TIP with