Robert Smith Obituary, Death – The Franklin County Coroner has identified the victim of a fatal shooting that occurred early Saturday morning on Columbus’ east side. The man, 44-year-old Robert Smith, was pronounced dead at 1:59 a.m., shortly after police responded to a report of a shooting on the 2000 block of Dana Drive around 1:45 a.m.
According to authorities, Smith was sitting in a van parked in the lot of an apartment complex when he was shot. Witness accounts provided varying details about the suspect’s escape. Some witnesses reported seeing the suspect leave the scene on foot, heading east on Dana Drive toward North Gould Road. Others said the suspect fled in a white car.
At this time, police have not identified a suspect or determined a possible motive for the shooting. Detectives are urging anyone with relevant information, including photos or videos from the area, to come forward to assist in the investigation.
Community members with tips can contact Columbus police at 614-645-4488 or email Detective AJohnson@ColumbusPolice.org. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be submitted through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-8477.
As the investigation continues, police are working to piece together the circumstances surrounding the shooting, while Smith’s death has left his loved ones and the community seeking justice.