Cincinnati police have arrested a suspect in the murder of Patrick Heringer, a respected gym owner and U.S. Army veteran, who was fatally stabbed in his Over-the-Rhine home early Wednesday morning. As reported by WLWT, Mordecia Black, 38, has been charged with murder and aggravated burglary in connection with the incident.
Officers were called to the scene at approximately 4 a.m. on East McMicken Avenue, Heringer, 46, later died from his injuries with police initially suggesting there was no intruder involved, everything unfolding within the confines of the home, local authorities have not yet disclosed more details regarding the circumstances of his death as such the investigation continues. Black, who had a previous conviction for a violent assault in 2016 and was released on supervised release in January, is set to appear in court today. This information is grounded in a news release confirmed by Cincinnati.com.
Members and friends of Findlay Movement, the fitness community Heringer built with his wife, Sarah, are mourning the loss, he was a beacon of positivity and influence, known for sharing surprising tales and unwinding amusing stories, Heringer is remembered as "everybody's champion," a title bestowed by local restaurateur and gym member Sarah Dworak. The gym, originally established as CrossFit 513, grew to nearly 300 members under Heringer's guidance, a former Army captain with several CrossFit certifications, the personal stories and memories shared with Heringer are coming to light in the wake of this tragedy, echoing the sentiments of Heringer's friend Brant Dutle, who told FOX 19, "The easiest way I can take it is you can't make sense out of the senseless."
Findlay Movement gym closed right after Heringer’s death, with flowers and notes of remembrance left at the door. A note on the entrance says it plans to reopen. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Cincinnati Police Homicide Unit at 513-352-3542.
