Ohio City business owners address safety concerns after of Browns opener

CLEVELAND — An overnight shooting in Cleveland’s Ohio City left one man hospitalized, as the neighborhood prepares for large crowds during the Browns’ home opening weekend.

Police say the shooting happened around 12:30 a.m. near a bus stop at West 25th Street and Lorain Avenue. Shell casings were recovered at the scene, and the victim was taken to MetroHealth Medical Center in serious condition. 

The incident comes just months after multiple people were sentenced for their roles in last year’s street takeovers on the same block, when cars blocked traffic, performed stunts, and set fires. Business owners say they are aware of the past incidents, but believe Ohio City remains a safe place to live, work, and visit.

“Thankfully, it is very rare,” said Sam McNulty, owner of Market Garden Brewery. “This is not unique to Ohio City — it happens in the suburbs, it happens in the countryside, it happens in cities. Unfortunately, it’s a very rare occurrence, but we have to be aware it could happen.”

McNulty says his businesses hire off-duty Cleveland police officers from the city’s Second District to help with safety, especially during large events. Christopher Watson, a manager at ABC the Tavern, adds that Browns game days bring some of the largest crowds of the year.

“Especially during home games, we got a lot of people coming in because it’s so packed downtown,” Watson told 3News.

He describes the atmosphere as lively, but safe.

“It’s fun, but it’s not ever, like, dangerous, I would say. It’s a good time,” Watson said. “They get excited. I wouldn’t say people get too rowdy until nightfall — and we have security here.”

Despite the recent violence, both Watson and McNulty say they still feel comfortable in the neighborhood.

“There’s a reason I live, work, and play all in Ohio City,” McNulty said.

Police have not released further details about Friday’s shooting. No arrests have been made.