36-year-old Stow woman found dead inside home
Police are investigating the death of Larretta Ann Allison as a domestic homicide after officers discovered her body during a routine visit.
By Anthony Lawson ·
Larretta Ann Allison was found with multiple gunshot wounds inside her home in Stow, Ohio, on Wednesday afternoon. The 36-year-old woman was identified by the Summit County Medical Examiner. Investigators from the Stow police and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation are treating the case as a domestic homicide. No arrests have been made as of Thursday.
Officers responded to a house in the 4100 block of Vira Road around 5:20 p.m. on Wednesday. They were there to assist a landlord with a tenant issue. Once inside, they discovered Allison’s body. Detectives believe she had died some time before they arrived. A relative also visited the home to conduct a welfare check at the same time.
Family members said they grew worried after several days passed without a call from Allison. They noted that she typically spoke with someone every day. Adrian Mims, Allison’s aunt, described the victim to reporters at a gathering held on Thursday. “Loretta, she was silly, but she also was sweet. She loved her kids. I could say that she loved her whole family inside and out,” Mims said.
Allison, who was affectionately known as Rett, leaves behind two children. Family members said their primary focus now is supporting the children. Carolyn Mims-Nelson, another aunt, emphasized the importance of stability for the kids. “We got to be there for the kids. The kids are the most important thing for us,” Mims-Nelson said.
Loved ones gathered on Thursday to release purple and black balloons in Allison’s memory. The event included music, candlelight, and photos of the victim. Participants said they hope the release serves as a reminder about the realities of domestic violence. Mims-Nelson urged anyone facing such situations to seek help. “Domestic violence is not a joke. I mean, it’s really something that needs to be handled and if you’re facing it, somebody needs to get some help,” she said.
The family is asking the public to come forward with any information that could lead to an arrest. They stated they will not rest until someone is held accountable for Allison’s death. A GoFundMe account has been established to support the family. The Stow Police Department Detective Bureau is taking calls at (330) 689-5770.
Allison’s death has left a community in mourning. The investigation remains active as detectives review evidence from the home. Family members continue to ask for neighbors and friends to watch for details they may have missed. The balloon release marked the first public memorial for the victim since her body was found.
