Isabella Marie Bella Barnes, a 12-year-old girl from Newark, Ohio, tragically passed away on June 21, 2019. She was born on July 27, 2006, to Kenneth Lee Barnes, Jr., and Angela Marie Barnes. Isabella, known for her cheerful demeanor and love for crafts, swimming, and spending time with friends and animals, was a beloved member of her community.
The circumstances surrounding Isabella's death were deeply troubling. She was fatally shot on the front porch of her family's home in Newark. The incident occurred around 9:15 p.m., and Isabella was later pronounced dead at Licking Memorial Hospital. The suspect, 18-year-old Keegan W. Mummey, was arrested later that night by Hebron police and initially charged with one count of aggravated murder, an unclassified felony.
Following the shooting, Mummey was indicted on additional charges, including rape and tampering with evidence. Investigators believed that Mummey and Isabella may have had a relationship at some point, and the indictment accused him of engaging in sexual conduct with the victim between January 1 and June 21, 2019. Mummey's attorneys entered a plea of not guilty by reason of insanity on his behalf, and he was later declared incompetent for trial and ordered to undergo treatment at a behavioral healthcare center.
The community's response to Isabella's death was one of profound grief and solidarity. Over 300 people gathered outside her home for a candlelight vigil, where loved ones embraced each other, sang "Amazing Grace," and released pink and glitter-filled balloons in her memory. The Isabella Barnes Memorial Fund, created by Cherry Valley Elementary staff, raised over $5,600 to support her family.
Isabella's death was a tragic and senseless loss, leaving her family, friends, and community to grapple with the aftermath of this horrific event. The legal proceedings against Mummey continued, with the court finding him mentally ill and subject to court-ordered hospitalization. The case highlighted the devastating impact of violence on young lives and the importance of community support in times of tragedy.
