Aniaz Paradiso Obituary, Death – The Parma Heights community is grieving after the tragic death of 15-year-old Aniaz Paradiso, a junior at Valley Forge High School, who was killed in a shooting in Cleveland early Sunday morning. Principal Janine Andrzejewski informed families of the heartbreaking news in an email, describing the loss as “profoundly saddening.” She remembered Paradiso as someone who was “adventurous and full of energy,” noting that he embraced life fully and left a mark everywhere he went. Andrzejewski said his most memorable trait was his “warm, infectious smile—a smile that lit up any room.”

Paradiso had been a member of Valley Forge’s student body since ninth grade but had also previously attended Shiloh Middle School and Parma High School. Teachers, classmates, and administrators described him as a student who built strong connections with those around him and carried a magnetic presence that drew people in.

According to Cleveland police, the incident occurred shortly after midnight on Sunday near West 130th Street and Lorain Avenue. Investigators reported that a group of young people had gathered for a party at an Airbnb when an altercation broke out. During the conflict, shots were fired, and Paradiso sustained a fatal gunshot wound.

Responding officers arrived at the scene after receiving reports of a fight and quickly learned that gunfire had taken place. A police helicopter and K-9 units were deployed during the search for those involved. Authorities later arrested an 18-year-old suspect, who is currently being held at the Cuyahoga County Jail on obstruction charges. Investigators say the case remains open, with additional details expected as they continue to review evidence and question witnesses.

In her letter to families, Principal Andrzejewski assured parents and students that the school is mobilizing resources to help the community cope with the loss. Beginning this week, crisis counselors, licensed therapists, and school psychologists will be available in the Valley Forge Media Center to provide support to students. She emphasized that grief can affect not only those closest to the victim but also the wider school community, and that professional support will be accessible to anyone who needs it.

“Our hearts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” Andrzejewski wrote, noting that Paradiso’s younger sisters, who attend Thoreau Park and Shiloh Middle School, are also receiving additional care and support.

In addition to on-site services, the district provided families with resources to help them talk to their children about grief. Parents were encouraged to reassure their children, listen to their concerns, and maintain familiar routines to provide a sense of stability. Families were also given links to online tools, such as KidsGrief.ca and other grief-focused platforms, to help guide conversations about loss.

The school also invited families to contact counselors or the Home Liaison, Vikkie Gemelas, for additional support, including referrals to community partners such as OhioGuidestone and Cornerstone of Hope, organizations specializing in grief counseling for children, teens, and adults.

Paradiso’s death has left a noticeable void at Valley Forge High School. Peers described him as a friend who was full of life and energy, someone who embraced new experiences and spread positivity wherever he went. Many expressed their grief and disbelief on social media, sharing memories of his smile and the joy he brought to others.

The shooting has also raised concerns about youth safety, gatherings, and gun violence in Cleveland. While the investigation is still underway, local leaders and community members have expressed sadness that yet another young life was cut short in a moment of violence.

As the school week begins, Valley Forge students and staff face the difficult task of moving forward while honoring the memory of Aniaz Paradiso. Vigils and memorials are expected to take place as friends and family find ways to celebrate his life while mourning his untimely passing.

For now, the community’s focus remains on healing and supporting one another, with a shared determination to remember the joy and light Paradiso brought into so many lives.