Sharde Tarplay, a 25-year-old woman from Cincinnati, OH, tragically lost her life on May 13, 2020. She was shot in the neck during what police believe was a drive-by shooting on Dutch Colony Drive in Winton Hills. Despite being rushed to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, she succumbed to her injuries.
In the aftermath of her death, Cincinnati police arrested DeShawn Willingham Jr., 26, on May 15, 2020, in connection with the shooting. Willingham was charged with murder and held on a $500,000 bond. The investigation continued, and on May 28, 2020, Cincinnati homicide detectives, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals, arrested Taquil Overby, 21, in Eufaula, Alabama. Overby was also charged with murder and awaited trial in Hamilton County Jail.
The case drew significant attention as it highlighted ongoing issues with gun violence in Cincinnati. The Cincinnati Police Department's Homicide Unit continued to investigate the incident, urging anyone with information to come forward. Through organ donation, Sharde Tarplay was able to help 80 people, leaving a lasting impact despite the tragedy.
The legal proceedings against Willingham and Overby were set to continue, with both suspects facing serious charges for their alleged roles in Tarplay's death. The community and law enforcement remained committed to addressing the root causes of such violence and ensuring justice for Sharde Tarplay.
