Alishah Pointer was a 22-year-old woman from North Randall, Ohio, who was brutally killed by a group of eight people who allegedly kidnapped, tortured and shot her before leaving her body in a burned-out house in East Cleveland. The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner ruled her death a homicide caused by multiple gunshot wounds. This article will explore the details of this horrific crime, the motives behind it, and the status of the suspects involved.
The Kidnapping
According to the police, the ordeal began on November 9, 2021, when two of the suspects kidnapped one of Pointer’s friends from East Cleveland at gunpoint and forced her to drive to Pointer’s home in North Randall to lure her out. The friend managed to escape and call 911, but Pointer was abducted by the kidnappers and taken to at least two other locations before being tortured and killed. The police believe that the kidnappers were trying to get information from Pointer about a deadly shooting that occurred in Cleveland a week earlier, but it is unclear whether Pointer knew anything about that incident. Pointer’s twin sister, Aalyiah, said that her sister was innocent and had nothing to do with the shooting.
The Discovery
On November 10, 2021, the police received a tip about a possible homicide at a vacant house on Savannah Avenue in East Clevelan. When they arrived, they found Pointer’s body inside the house, which had been set on fire. The police also found evidence of torture, such as blood, duct tape, and bullet casings. The police identified Pointer as the victim and notified her family, who had reported her missing the previous day.
The Suspects
The police identified eight people as suspects in Pointer’s kidnapping and murder, and arrested four of them as of November 15, 2021. The four arrested suspects are:
- Anthony Bryant, 18, charged with murder.
- Brittany Smith, 30, charged with murder.
- Portria Williams, 32, charged with murder.
- Nathaniel Poke Jr., 17, charged with aggravated murder.
The police are still looking for the other four suspects, who are:
- Hakeem Shomo, wanted for murder.
- Anthony Bryant, 18, wanted for murder.
- Two unidentified suspects.
The police are asking anyone with information about the whereabouts of the wanted suspects to contact them or Crime Stoppers.
The Aftermath
Pointer’s death has shocked and saddened her family, friends, and community, who described her as a kind, loving, and outgoing person who had a bright future ahead of her. Pointer was a graduate of Bedford High School and was studying to become a nurse. She also had a passion for music and dancing, and was a member of a dance group called The Royal Dolls. Pointer’s twin sister, Aalyiah, said that she and her sister were inseparable and that she misses her every day. Pointer’s family is seeking justice for her death and hopes that the perpetrators will be caught and punished.
Pointer’s death has also raised questions about the safety and security of the residents of East Cleveland, a city that has been plagued by poverty, violence, and corruption for years. East Cleveland Mayor Brandon King said that his city is working with the police and the FBI to solve Pointer’s case and other unsolved homicides in the area. He also said that his city needs more resources and support from the state and federal governments to address the root causes of crime and improve the quality of life for the residents.
Pointer’s death is a tragic reminder of the senseless and brutal violence that can occur in our society, and the need for more compassion and justice for the victims and their families. Pointer’s life was cut short by a group of ruthless and heartless criminals who showed no mercy or remorse for their actions. Pointer’s family and friends are mourning her loss and hoping for closure and peace. Pointer’s memory will live on in the hearts and minds of those who knew and loved her.
