Xander Epps was a teenage boy who was stabbed by a 16-year-old boy named John Jackson outside a McDonald’s near North Summit Street on the evening of August 23, 2025.
The attack happened suddenly. Xander was wounded and desperate, and he ran into the restaurant for help.
Before rushing him to St. Vincent’s Hospital, emergency responders arrived quickly and treated him at the scene.
Still, despite their efforts, he died shortly after arrival due to the severity of his injuries.
The suspect was arrested and charged with murder and booked into the Juvenile Justice Center.
As of now, authorities have not released a clear motive for why a 16-year-old boy stabbed Xander. Investigation is ongoing.
Xander Epps, A Young Life Was Tragically Cut Short in an Act of Teenage Violence!
Xander Epps was a 14-year-old boy from North Toledo who loved football and dreamed of joining the military one day.
Known for his dedication, energy, and strong spirit on the field, he played for a local youth team.
Off the field, he had recently started going to church, attending therapy, and preparing for the new school year with hope and excitement.
His family said he was turning his life around and was proud of the progress he was making in both school and sports.
The tragic stabbing case has left the North Toledo community heartbroken.
Around 40 people gathered at a vigil held near the McDonald’s near the scene of the stabbing in North Toledo to honor his memory.
Xander Epps’ mother, Apryle Thomas, shared her heartbreaking words during a candlelight vigil.
She said through tears:
They took my son from me… he was such a good kid.
Additionally, there is a GoFundMe campaign “Help Xander’s Family After Tragic Loss“, reportedly created by Athene Epps, Xander Epps’s sister, to support the family with funeral expenses.
However, Xander’s mother has confirmed that neither she nor her family created a GoFundMe campaign for her son.
She urges the public not to donate to any fraudulent campaigns claiming to support him.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Xander Epps’ family, friends, and well-wishers.
Rest In Peace, Beautiful Soul!
