2 cousins, friend killed in shootings in Canton

CANTON (AP) — Two cousins and a companion were killed early Wednesday when gunfire erupted outside a bar where police had earlier responded to the report of a fight, officials said.

The Stark County coroner’s office identified the victims as cousins Jonathon L. Pierce, 32, of Canton, and De’Andre Ruffin, 22, of nearby Massillon, and a companion, Melissa L. Pinney, 31, also of Canton.

The coroner’s office said the three apparently had been shot. Autopsies were pending.

Deputy Chief Thomas Ream said police were pursuing leads and several suspects. No details were disclosed.

The shootings “stemmed from an altercation” earlier inside the bar, Ream said. He would not say whether shots were exchanged or if weapons were found at the scene.

Darryl Dennis, general manager of the bar, said the fight continued in the street, and police, responding to a call reporting trouble there, dispersed the group.

An hour later, he said, the parties returned to the tavern.

Witnesses told police they saw a red pickup truck speeding from the scene. Police said the White Crown Cafe was closed when the shooting occurred at about 2 a.m. There had been a fight there earlier.

Vince Bassi lives above the bar and said he was frightened by the sound of gunfire.

“It woke me up and I was ducking,” Bassi said.