Suspect in deadly shooting of North Royalton building commissioner to face a judge
NORTH ROYALTON, Ohio (WOIO) - The suspect accused in last week’s shooting at North Royalton’s service center that left an employee dead will face a judge Monday morning.
The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner identified the victim as 52-year-old David A Smerek of Brunswick; he was the city’s building commissioner.
James Budzik, assistant law director with the office’s law department, said the shooting happened at the North Royalton Service Center, 11545 Royalton Road, starting around 1:25 p.m. on Friday.
Mayor Paul Marnecheck II said Saturday in a press release that Friday’s shooting was “senseless gun violence.”
Ohio BCI has been asked to assist with the investigation.
On Friday, law enforcement detained a suspect, and on Monday morning, North Royalton Police Chief Keith Tarase confirmed that the suspect will face a judge.
Officials, community honor Smerek
In a Saturday evening press release, Marnecheck reflected on Smerek and his career with the city.
Marnecheck said Smerek’s presence “prevented further tragedy in our building.”
Former Ward 3 councilman Dan Langshaw reflected on his time working alongside Smerek in a statement released Friday.
Ryan Nixon of the Brunswick Hills Township trustees confirmed Smerek formerly served on the city’s zoning commission and asked that “you keep David and his family in your thoughts and prayers.”
Since the incident, flowers have been placed outside the service center to honor Smerek.
A prayer vigil honoring Smerek’s memory will be held Monday at 7 p.m. at St. Albert the Great Parish.
City responds with closures, added security
In a different release, he said Saturday that City Hall and the service building will be closed to the public Monday.
The splash pad will be closed Saturday through Monday.
All city buildings will reopen Tuesday.
Marnecheck added that an armed North Royalton Police Department officer will be at the Building Department for the foreseeable future.
The city’s safety director will evaluate access to every municipal building and its access points.
This is a developing story. Return to 19 News for updates.
Copyright 2026 WOIO. All rights reserved.