Samuel L. Nicholson II, a 16-year-old male of Ashville, Ohio, tragically passed away on June 11, 2017. He was born on February 27, 2001, in Circleville, Ohio, and attended Teays Valley High School. Samuel was the son of Jennifer Lynn Climer Castle and Samuel L. Nicholson I, and he had a brother named Robert Hillis Castle. He is also survived by his girlfriend Kirstin Ferguson and numerous other family members.
The circumstances surrounding Samuel's death were grim.
He was fatally shot multiple times inside an apartment in Ashville by Justin Blevins, a 20-year-old man from Pickaway County. The shooting occurred over a drug debt of $700. Blevins was charged with aggravated murder and felonious assault. He was found guilty in December 2017 and sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole in 37 years.
The investigation into Samuel's death began immediately after the incident, with Justin Blevins becoming the prime suspect. Blevins was apprehended on June 13, 2017, when he arrived at the office of attorney James Kingsley in Circleville and was taken into custody without incident. He later entered a 'not guilty' plea during his pretrial hearing.
The loss of Samuel L. Nicholson II was a devastating event for his family and the community of Ashville. His obituary reflects the deep sorrow felt by those who knew him, describing him as a young man who always had a smile on his face and was a pleasure to be around. The family requested donations to help with funeral expenses instead of flowers.
The case of Samuel L. Nicholson II's death highlights the tragic consequences of drug-related violence and the impact it has on families and communities. The legal proceedings against Justin Blevins underscore the seriousness of the crime and the pursuit of justice for the victim and his loved ones.
