Marquelis Shaquan Barnes, a 16-year-old African American male from Columbus, Ohio, tragically lost his life on June 29, 2017. He was affectionately known as "Quel-Bandz" and was a rising senior at Focus Learning Academy. Marquelis was known for his love of music, basketball, playing PS4 with friends, and spending time with his family. He was also a member of New Life Tabernacle Pentecostal Missionary Church in Pataskala.
On the night of his death, Marquelis was found in the parking lot
of a BP Gas Station on East Main Street in Columbus, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to Grant Medical Center but was pronounced dead at 3:06 a.m. The incident occurred around 1:56 a.m., when Columbus Police officers responded to reports of multiple gunshots being fired. Despite the efforts of law enforcement, the case remains unsolved, and no arrests have been made.
The Columbus Police Department continues to investigate Marquelis' death as part of their Homicide Cold Case Unit. They have urged anyone with information to come forward and assist in bringing justice to Marquelis and his family. The community and Marquelis' loved ones continue to mourn his loss and seek closure in this tragic case.
Marquelis' memory lives on through his family, friends, and the many lives he touched during his short time on earth. His kind, quiet, and gentle spirit is deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
