Luke William Cabbage, a 19-year-old male of Caucasian ethnicity from New Philadelphia, Ohio, tragically lost his life on September 11, 2017. Born on May 4, 1998, in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, Luke was known for his friendly demeanor and love for traveling and competing in Kendama competitions. He graduated from New Philadelphia High School in 2016 and briefly attended Akron University before working at Buehler's and Subway in New Philadelphia.
Luke's death was the result of a drug deal gone wrong. On the day of his murder, Luke was shot in the back by Arnoldo Moreno-Orduno, a 19-year-old from Dillonvale, Jefferson County, during an attempted robbery. The shooting occurred in the front yard of a home in Newcomerstown, and Luke succumbed to a single gunshot wound that severely damaged his right lung and perforated his pulmonary artery. Despite efforts to save him, Luke bled out within minutes.
Arnoldo Moreno-Orduno, along with two co-defendants, Kyle Boyd and another unnamed individual, were arrested and charged in connection with Luke's death. Moreno-Orduno pleaded guilty to aggravated murder, four counts of murder, aggravated robbery, two counts of conspiracy, and tampering with evidence. He was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 25 years. Kyle Boyd received a four-year sentence for involuntary manslaughter and a two-year sentence for conspiracy to commit robbery, to be served concurrently. Boyd also expressed remorse and a desire to seek addiction rehabilitation.
The case drew significant attention in Tuscarawas County, with the judge, prosecutor, defense attorney, and the defendant's family all expressing sorrow over the tragic loss of Luke's life. Kathy Cabbage, Luke's mother, spoke during the court hearing, expressing her heartbreak and extending sympathy to the family of the perpetrator.
Luke's untimely death left a lasting impact on his family, friends, and the community, who remembered him for his contagious smile and kind nature. His funeral was held on September 18, 2017, at the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory in Dover, Ohio, with interment at Evergreen Burial Park in New Philadelphia.
The case remains a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of drug-related violence and the importance of seeking help for addiction and rehabilitation.
