Family of Teen Killed by Cincinnati Police Demands Accountability, Holds Vigils and Rallies

Family of Teen Killed by Cincinnati Police Demands Accountability, Holds Vigils and Rallies

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The family of 18-year-old Ryan Hinton, who was shot and killed by Cincinnati police in May in East Price Hill, is speaking out against what they call a lack of accountability in the case.

Police released video showing Hinton running from a stolen car with a gun, and Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich ruled the officer’s use of deadly force justified, saying he “reasonably believed he was in danger.” The decision not to bring the case before a grand jury left Hinton’s family devastated.

Starting Friday, the family and community supporters began a series of events demanding justice and reform. A march and rally kicked off at Washington Square Park in Over-the-Rhine, with participants walking to Police Headquarters in the West End and later to the Hamilton County Courthouse.

Hinton’s cousin, Ryant Jackson, voiced the family’s frustration:

“An injustice was served. No one’s being held accountable for the death of my cousin, for the death of a son. They always say, ‘Wait for the justice system,’ but it’s not working.”

Jackson emphasized that Hinton had just turned 18, describing him as a young man often misunderstood.

“Although a lot of people depict him as this certain thing, he was not that. He was not the thief of that car. He was just hanging with friends.”

The family says this summer has been filled with grief and trauma, especially for Hinton’s mother, who Jackson says relives the tragedy daily.

The remembrance events continue this weekend:

• Saturday: A vigil will be held at Hawaiian Terrace at 7 p.m.

• Sunday: A Community Day for Hinton is planned at Mount Airy Park beginning at 12 p.m.

The family says their fight is not only for Ryan but also for broader police accountability and justice reform in Cincinnati.