042126...R BALLOON LAUNCH...Warren...04-21-26...Olivia Hudson of Warren, right, delivers an emotional prayer for murder victim Vontisha Williams just as family, friends and supporters release balloons from the parking lot of Packard Music Hall Tuesday afternoon...by R. Michael Semple

Staff report

WARREN — Family and friends gathered Tuesday evening at Packard Park to honor Vontisha Williams with a balloon release following her death in a shooting last week.

Williams, known by family and friends as “Sway,” was remembered as a kind-hearted mother and grandmother with a bright smile and generous spirit who brought people together. She was also a devoted sister, niece, cousin and friend, those gathered said.

Balloons were released as loved ones celebrated her life and mourned her loss.

The shooting remains under investigation by Warren police with no suspect in custody. Family members said her life was cut short after she was shot inside her northwest Warren home in the early morning on April 14.

Warren police responded to a shots fired call around 2 a.m. in the 2000 block of Northwest Boulevard and found bullet holes in the front door of Willams’ residence.

Officers located a juvenile victim in the living room and Williams in the basement.

Both victims were transported to St. Joseph Warren Hospital for treatment.

Williams succumbed to her injuries two days later, on April 16, police said.

Anyone with information on the case is encouraged to contact Detective Sgt. Michael Altiere at 330-841-2749, and information also can be provided anonymously to the department’s tip line.

The family has started a GoFundMe account to help cover funeral expenses and other costs. It has raised $6,640 of its $8,000 goal as of Tuesday evening.

Her death marks the fifth homicide in Warren this year. The city had a total of seven homicides in 2025.