April Nicole Caleodis, a 31-year-old woman from Gahanna, Ohio, tragically passed away on May 15, 2017. She was a veterinary technician at Gahanna Animal Hospital and a recent graduate of the Paramedic program at Columbus State Community College. April was known for her love of animals and nature, often working with rescue organizations like Columbus Cocker Rescue.
On the morning of her death, April did not show up for work, prompting her co-workers to contact her boyfriend, Jason
Kaufman, to check on her. When Kaufman's friend, Joseph Blankenship, went to their shared home with a key, he found April unconscious in an upstairs bedroom and immediately called 911. Unfortunately, April was pronounced dead at the scene.
Jason Kaufman was later found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound at Retreat at Turnberry Metro Park, about a mile away from their home. Police determined that Kaufman had murdered April before driving to the park and committing suicide. The motive behind the murder-suicide remains unclear, as there were no outward warning signs and neighbors reported not hearing any arguments between the couple.
The investigation concluded that Kaufman had a prior assault charge from 2008, but it was dismissed. April's death was recorded as the 52nd homicide in Columbus for that year. The Columbus Police Homicide Unit and Central Ohio Crime Stoppers encouraged anyone with information about the case to come forward.
April's family, friends, and colleagues remember her as a caring and compassionate person who made a significant impact on those around her. Her passing left a void in the lives of many who knew her, and her memory continues to be honored by those who loved her.
