Police did not release how many bullets were fired or whose gun was involved in the shooting. The incident marks the 12th homicide in Dayton this year.
Witnesses reported seeing a young black male without a shirt chasing Alexander with a gun, according to a 911 call. Officers identified him as 19-year-old Roemallo Taylor. He was arrested early Thursday and booked into Montgomery County Jail on a homicide charge, as well as a probation violation. He is scheduled to be arraigned today at 1:45 p.m. in Dayton Municipal Court. Stiver said police had not arrested the second suspect in the shooting as of Thursday evening.
Gregory Lucas, Alexander's father, said he only learned Thursday morning of his son's death and said the thought of burying him "is wrenching."
"He always called me 'Daddy,' ever since he was a little boy," Lucas said, wiping tears from his cheeks. "Just hearing him call me 'Daddy,' that one word and the way he said it always made me feel good.
"I love him and always did. The violence and gun play has to stop, it hurts so many families," Lucas added.
Both Alexander and Taylor have criminal records, and Alexander was shot in another dispute a few years ago, his father said. However, Lucas said his son was trying to turn his life around for his five children, getting his GED and finding work out-of-state. While he said he wants answers for why Taylor allegedly shot his son, he does not hold any ill-will against the suspect.
"I forgive him and I hope one day he understands the effect and the impact its had on our lives," Lucas said.
Police are looking for anyone with information about the shooting. Tips can be called in anonymously at (937) 222-7867.
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