CINCINNATI — A violent 24-hour period has left Cincinnati residents shaken after three separate shootings claimed the lives of two men and injured three others. The shootings occurred in different neighborhoods across the city, prompting increased police presence and urgent appeals for public assistance.
The first incident happened around 8:20 p.m. Wednesday inside a Shake Shack restaurant on Calhoun Street in Clifton Heights, just across from the University of Cincinnati. Police and university officers responded to reports of a shooting and found 41-year-old Christopher Stallworth with a gunshot wound to the chest. He was rushed to UC Medical Center but later died from his injuries early Thursday morning. Authorities confirmed that one person was taken into custody, but no details about the suspect or possible charges have been released.
Hours later, another shooting was reported in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. At approximately 12:35 a.m. Thursday, officers arrived at the scene on Walnut Street near Corwine Avenue and found two victims. One of them, identified as 30-year-old Brandon Lawrence, was transported to UC Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. The second victim, whose name has not been disclosed, was taken privately to Christ Hospital and is expected to survive. Police temporarily closed off nearby streets to investigate but have since reopened them.
Detectives are treating the Over-the-Rhine shooting as a homicide and continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses. So far, no arrests have been made in connection with this case, and the motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Officials are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in the investigation.
A third shooting was reported later on Thursday on Eastern Avenue in the Columbia-Tusculum neighborhood. Police say the investigation is still in its early stages and have not confirmed how many people were injured or the severity of their conditions. Additional details are expected as officers continue to collect information and speak with witnesses in the area.
These incidents have sparked concern across the city, especially in areas near the University of Cincinnati and Over-the-Rhine, where recent violence has disrupted everyday life. In response, police have increased patrols and are asking residents to remain vigilant. Community leaders are also calling for cooperation and urging anyone with information to help bring those responsible to justice.
Anyone with tips is encouraged to contact Cincinnati Crime Stoppers at 513-352-3040. Police believe community input could be vital in solving these cases and preventing further violence in the city.
