Columbus police are asking for the public's help after what detectives describe as a brutal robbery of an elderly man outside a downtown church on Sunday. The victim was sitting outside the closed building in the 500 block of North High Street when, according to police, a man approached and asked to be let inside. When the victim refused, the encounter turned violent.
Investigators say the attacker assaulted the man, stole a set of keys and used them to go back into the building. Once inside, the suspect allegedly continued the attack, dragging the victim around the building by his ankles. Detectives say the man then forced the victim to unlock his apartment and took an undetermined amount of cash.
As reported by ABC6, the incident happened around 5 p.m., and police are actively investigating. Officers have not released the victim's name or the exact amount of money taken and say the case remains open.
Suspect Description And How To Help
Columbus police described the suspect as a Black man about 50 years old, approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall, with a thin build and a full gray-and-black mustache. "Anyone with information is asked to contact Columbus police," ABC6 reported. Detectives are urging anyone who may have seen the attack or has video or other tips to come forward to help identify the suspect.
Neighborhood Safety Context
The assault comes as the Short North and downtown corridors have seen a string of late-night disturbances that have increased pressure on police and neighborhood groups. A 2025 wrongful-death verdict tied to a fatal assault outside a Short North bar underscored concerns about weekend violence, according to WOSU. Local reporting has documented stepped-up patrols and ambassador services in the Short North to help deter late-night problems, stepped-up patrols and ambassador services reported.
Legal Implications
Police say investigators are treating the incident as an active robbery and assault case. Any formal charges will be determined after detectives gather evidence and consult with prosecutors. Because the case involves alleged forced entry and theft from the victim's apartment, authorities say potential charges could be serious and would carry felony-level penalties if filed.
Anyone who saw the suspect, has video from the area, or has other information is asked to contact the Columbus Division of Police. Detectives say the investigation remains active and that they welcome tips that could lead to an arrest.
