Executive Summary
- US Marshals arrested Ron Christopher Hunter, the second suspect in a fatal December shooting.
- The incident resulted in the death of 23-year-old Monte Baker at the Medusa Restaurant & Lounge.
- First suspect Steven Cooperwood was previously arrested on Christmas Eve.
- The venue has permanently closed following a history of violent incidents.
Members of the U.S. Marshals-led Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force arrested a second suspect on Wednesday connected to a fatal shooting at a downtown Cleveland nightclub in December, according to law enforcement officials.
Ron Christopher Hunter, 29, was taken into custody without incident at a residence in the 6300 block of White Avenue. Hunter was sought by the Cleveland Division of Police on a murder charge relating to the December 7 incident at the Medusa Restaurant & Lounge.
The shooting took place in the early hours of December 7 within Cleveland’s downtown entertainment district. Police reports indicate that officers were flagged down near 1400 St. Clair Ave. regarding a man shot inside the venue. The victim, identified as 23-year-old Monte Baker, was pronounced dead at the scene despite emergency medical efforts.
This arrest follows the apprehension of the first suspect, 28-year-old Steven Cooperwood, who was captured by the task force on Christmas Eve at a residence in Akron. U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott commended the collaboration between homicide detectives and the task force, noting the danger posed by discharging firearms in a crowded establishment.
The Medusa Restaurant & Lounge has been the site of multiple violent incidents prior to this event, including a quadruple shooting on New Year’s Eve in 2020 and a double homicide on Memorial Day weekend in 2024. Following the death of Baker, the city of Cleveland announced on December 15 that the establishment had permanently closed its doors.
Investigative Outlook and Legal Proceedings
The apprehension of both suspects marks a significant milestone in the homicide investigation, transitioning the case from a fugitive manhunt to judicial proceedings. The permanent closure of the venue addresses a recurring public safety concern in the downtown district, reflecting a broader administrative response to establishments with a history of violence. Authorities have not yet released specific details regarding upcoming court appearances. It is important to note that all individuals charged in connection with this incident, including Hunter and Cooperwood, are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
