Honor Akim Toure: A Hero's Selfless Sacrifice

On the night of August 3, 2025, our beloved Akim Toure, a 27-year-old IT professional and cherished son, brother, cousin, and friend, was tragically taken from us due to senseless gun violence in Washington, D.C. He was fatally shot while courageously stepping in to protect a woman he didn’t even know—an act that reflects the very essence of who Akim was: selfless, brave, and deeply compassionate.

Akim came to the United States from Sierra Leone as a young boy with his mother, full of promise and dreams of a brighter future. He grew up with a strong sense of responsibility, driven by a desire to support his family and make them proud. Through perseverance and dedication, Akim built a successful career in IT, always striving to level and uplift those around him. That never made him change, he always remained humble and gave his time in any way possible.

He was a gentle soul with a powerful presence—known for his kind heart, infectious laugh, and unshakable integrity. Whether offering a helping hand, words of encouragement, or simply showing up when it mattered most, Akim made everyone feel seen and valued.

Our family is devastated by this unimaginable loss. Especially his mother Phylinda Peters-John and his little sister who are both completely heartbroken. Your support will go directly to them for funeral and memorial expenses, grief support for his family, and efforts to pursue justice for Akim, whose life was taken far too soon.

The details of the tragedy have been reported by several news outlets:

FOX 5 DC: https://www.fox5dc.com/news/man-shot-killed-outside-yotel-dc-identified-police

WUSA9: https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/deadly-shooting-investigation-near-yotel-northwest-dc/65-cd8c245f-575d-452c-afe8-567ee4d49e60

ABC 7News: https://wjla.com/news/local/man-shot-killed-northwest-dc-parking-garage-police-search-for-suspect-wanted-homicide-murder-shooting-gun-violence-washington-new-jersey-avenue-victim-rushed-hospital-dead-investigation-motive-detectives-dmv

DC Witness: https://dcwitness.org/document-mpd-investigating-northwest-fatal-shooting-3/

Akim’s final act—stepping in to protect another—was a profound expression of the kind of man he was: noble, fearless, and full of love. Please help us celebrate his life, honor his memory, and seek the justice he deserves.

Thank you for standing with us in love and remembrance of Akim Toure.