North Royalton prayer vigil honors slain building commissioner David Smerek

NORTH ROYALTON, Ohio (WOIO) - Residents, family and city employees gathered Monday night at St. Albert the Great for a prayer vigil honoring David Smerek, the North Royalton building commissioner who was shot and killed inside the North Royalton Service Center on Friday. City leaders called his death a senseless act of gun violence.

Community mourns at vigil

The church filled with grief before the vigil turned to song, with neighbors singing together in Smerek’s memory. A prayer offered during the service called on those present to support families and friends grieving his loss.

“For families and friends who grieve the loss of loved ones, especially our brother and co-worker David Smerek, that they may find comfort and compassionate companions, strength through each new day, and hope in the promises of heaven,” a speaker read.

One resident Peter Maizitis said the shooting came as a shock to the community.

“I’ve never really seen guns flourished and so this is a little bit of a shock,” Maizitis said.

Mayor addresses city employees

Mayor Paul Marnecheck spoke directly to city employees in attendance, urging them not to grieve alone.

“To my fellow city employees, I ask you, take a moment to look around the church. Look at how many people from throughout North Royalton are here tonight simply to support you,” Marnecheck said. “They came to stand beside you, to pray with you, to grieve with you, and to remind you, you do not have to carry this alone.”

Security questions emerge

City Hall and the service building were closed to the public Monday as staff grieved. The mayor said security will be evaluated at municipal buildings and access points going forward.

Some residents said the service department should have had the same protections already in place at City Hall.

“They need more security over there at that service department. The City Hall — look at what they have: bulletproof glass, they have metal detectors, and they have police over there. What do they have over at the service department? Good grief, protect these people. You never know what’s going to happen,” Maizitis said.

Smerek’s career

Smerek spent several years as a building inspector in Brunswick before joining North Royalton more than a decade ago. He was promoted to building commissioner in 2024. The mayor said Smerek loved every minute of the job.

Marnecheck closed his remarks with a question he said Smerek asked often.

“I would like to leave you with one final question. I believe it was among Dave’s final words and it’s something I heard him say countless times: How can I help you?” Marnecheck said.