On the cold streets of Columbus in the early morning hours on Monday, tragedy struck in the form of an all-too-familiar sound, gunshots. According to a press release from the Columbus Division of Police, officers were dispatched to the 1400 block of Slade Ave. following a shooting report. There, they discovered Tremain Russell, 33, clinging to life with a gunshot wound.

Russell was rushed to Riverside Hospital by CFD Medic 11 but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at 12:41 AM. Cierra Locke-Shelby, who shared children with the victim, remained at the scene, confessing that she held the gun during an argument that went south. "the argument got heated and she was waiving the handgun about when it discharged and the projectile struck Russell," Locke-Shelby explained, according to the Columbus Division of Police, claiming the discharge was accidental due to a faulty handgun.

Despite her claims of an unintentional shooting, Locke-Shelby has been charged with Reckless Homicide and is currently behind bars at the Franklin County Jail. As the community grapples with the loss, detectives on the case urge anyone with information to step forward. Detective Polgar, assisted by Detective Lemmon, is seeking tips that can be directed to (614) 645-4196 or via email to [email protected]. Central Ohio Crime Stoppers also receives anonymous tips at (614) 461-TIPS (8477).