Richard F. Newcomer, a 64-year-old male of Caucasian ethnicity, tragically lost his life on September 6, 2018, in Cincinnati, OH. He was a superintendent with Gilbane Building Co. and was attending a work meeting in the lobby of the Fifth Third Center when he was fatally shot. The incident was part of a mass shooting that claimed the lives of three individuals, including Newcomer, and injured two others.
The shooter, identified as Omar Santa Perez, an Ohio man, was reportedly dressed in
business casual attire and carrying a briefcase before opening fire on the victims. The police quickly responded to the scene, engaging in a shootout with the gunman, who ultimately died at the scene. Authorities described the situation as "horrific" and praised the quick response of law enforcement, which likely prevented further casualties.
Mayor John Cranley spoke at a press conference following the incident, highlighting Newcomer's contributions to the city's construction industry and expressing condolences to his family. The mayor emphasized that Newcomer was a dedicated professional who had helped build many of the city's structures.
The investigation into the shooting revealed that Perez had no known connection to the victims and appeared to have acted randomly. The tragic event left the community in mourning and raised questions about gun violence and public safety.
Richard Newcomer is remembered by his family as a loving husband, father, and grandfather who always put others before himself. His sudden and untimely death has left a lasting impact on those who knew him and the broader Cincinnati community.
