Shooting victim Michael Blackwell was well-liked, attorney says

Police still looking for blue SUV

WARREN -- The attorney who represented the man shot and killed early Saturday morning in an apparent "road rage" dispute said the victim was beloved because he was hard working and generous.

Michael Blackwell, 37, of Warren, died just before 4 a.m. to Beck Street SE at Rogers Avenue SE, according to a Trumbull County 911 call summary. Beck Street and Rogers Avenue SE are in a Trumbull Homes development near Willard PK-8 School.

"He was a handy guy who was well-liked in the community," said attorney David Engler about Blackwell, a man Engler had represented many times in court over the last decade.

According to reports, Blackwell was in his car, blocking the road, when an argument started with another driver in a dark blue SUV who trying to pass by.

"They were fighting, now they're shooting," one 911 caller told dispatchers.

Engler said it was a shame since the area is not a through street.

He said police are searching for the SUV and its owner.

A report this weekend from Safety-Service Director Enzo Cantalamessa said several witnesses to the shooting were being uncooperative with police.

Detectives did not return calls Monday to answer questions about updates in the case. However, a police shift commander said no arrests were made Monday afternoon.

Numerous people called 911 to report the shooting, according to the report. One caller reported hearing four or five shots.

Engler took exception to people making references to Blackwell's long criminal record, which shows him being booked in the Trumbull County Jail 32 times since 1998.

"He had jobs supporting his large family since he was 13," Engler said, noting that Blackwell had two brothers among 12 siblings who were also shooting death victims.

Engler said police do have a name of a possible suspect but would not give further details.

"You have to ask detectives," he said.

gvogrin@tribtoday.com