Autumn Ward Columbus OH Death – On January 7, 2025, Columbus police responded to a 911 call from Gage Smith, 28, who directed them to an apartment in the 100 block of Chittenden Avenue, near Ohio State University.
Upon arrival, officers found 32-year-old Autumn Ward unresponsive with a gunshot wound; she was pronounced dead at 7:49 a.m.
Smith, identified as Ward’s boyfriend, admitted responsibility for her death and was arrested at the scene. He has been charged with murder, with domestic violence cited as a potential motive.
Smith’s arraignment is scheduled for Wednesday morning. The Columbus Police Department continues to investigate the incident and urges anyone with information to contact Det. Camp-Donovan at 614-645-2557, the Homicide Unit at 614-645-4730, or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-8477 (TIPS).
This tragic event highlights the pervasive issue of domestic violence. Resources are available for those in need: the National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 1-800-799-7233, and the LSS CHOICES 24/7 hotline is available at 614-224-4663.
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