Theaplus "Theo" Redmond Jr., a 19-year-old male of African American ethnicity, tragically passed away on September 15, 2020, in Youngstown, Ohio. Redmond, who was originally from Fort Wayne, Indiana, was found shot to death inside a home on Salt Springs Road. The incident occurred around 1:15 a.m., and multiple people, including several young children, were present in the home at the time.
No other injuries were reported.
Authorities issued warrants for Zion Gilmore, 21, who was present at the scene and had a history of breaking into the same home. Gilmore was charged with domestic violence and aggravated burglary for an incident involving the same home, but he was not immediately charged in connection with Redmond's death. Investigators awaited ballistic test results before making further decisions.
On January 22, 2021, Zion Gilmore was indicted on charges of murder, aggravated burglary, felonious assault, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and intimidation of an attorney, victim, or witness in a criminal case. According to prosecutors, Gilmore and Redmond allegedly committed an armed burglary together, and Redmond was shot during the process. Under Ohio law, participants in activities resulting in someone's death can be convicted of murder, even if they are not the actual killer.
The case highlighted the ongoing issue of violence in Youngstown, with Redmond's death being the 22nd homicide in the city that year. The community and Redmond's family have expressed their grief and condolences over the loss of the young man, who was remembered as a former football standout at North Side High School in Fort Wayne.
The investigation into Theaplus Redmond Jr.'s death continues, with authorities working to gather more evidence and determine the full circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
