C&P Newswire
CLEVELAND — The search has escalated as authorities hunt for 17-year-old Royal King, accused of gunning down another teen in a cold-blooded attack inside a Cleveland deli.
At a press conference last Wednesday, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael O’Malley publicly named King as the suspect in the September 19 killing of Jahari Stegall, also 17, in the Northshore Collinwood.
Prosecutors say King drove to the 185th Deli in a stolen vehicle, entered the store, then encountered Stegall outside. Surveillance footage reportedly captures the moments before and after their brief exchange, during which King allegedly turned and fired a fatal shot into Stegall’s head.
After the shot, King is accused of fleeing in the same stolen car. That vehicle was later found abandoned not far from his home.
Prosecutor O’Malley condemned the act as “one of the most coldhearted, treacherous, cowardly homicides I’ve seen in my 10 years as prosecutor.”
King was indicted on multiple counts including aggravated murder, felonious assault, carrying a concealed weapon, and improperly handling firearms in a vehicle.
Voices from the community
Councilman Mike Polensek pleaded with the public, saying,
“If he’s not apprehended, who’s next? Who’s next?”
“He did nothing … he was going to school, a responsible young man.”
Pastors representing local youth outreach groups, echoed the urgency.
“This violence is tearing our community apart. We need answers and accountability — but we also need healing.”
A school official—speaking on condition of anonymity due to security concerns—said Stegall was “well liked” at his school and “had big plans,” deepening the sense of shock among classmates and teachers.
The U.S. Marshals, Cleveland Police, and county investigators are now jointly leading the search.
Anyone with information about King’s whereabouts is urged to contact the U.S. Marshals tip line at 1-866-4WANTED or Cleveland Police Homicide at (216) 623-5464.
Because the suspect is a minor, authorities say his capture must balance urgency with due process. Meanwhile, community leaders are racing to stem fear and prevent further tragedy.
This is a breaking story. We will keep you informed with further updates as new developments emerge.
