Ryan VanBuskirk, a 35-year-old man from Wapakoneta, Ohio, tragically passed away on November 21, 2016, at Lima Memorial Hospital. His death was the result of a shooting incident that occurred during a drug deal in the 700 block of Catalpa Avenue in Lima. VanBuskirk was known for being a hard-working individual who loved his children deeply.
The investigation into VanBuskirk's death led to the arrest of two individuals: Rione A.
Gray, a 22-year-old from Florissant, Missouri, and Chaz Jackson, a 24-year-old from Lima, Ohio. Gray was charged with murder, involuntary manslaughter, and aggravated robbery, while Jackson faced similar charges. Gray was captured in St. Louis, Missouri, in 2017, and Jackson was arrested in Huntsville, Alabama, in 2018.
Gray eventually accepted a plea deal, pleading guilty to involuntary manslaughter with a firearm specification, resulting in a six-year prison sentence. Jackson, on the other hand, went to trial and was convicted of involuntary manslaughter but acquitted of murder. He received a 14-year prison sentence for his role in VanBuskirk's death.
The case highlighted the dangers associated with drug transactions and the devastating impact they can have on families and communities. VanBuskirk's family, including his wife Nicole Coon and their children, have had to cope with the loss and the emotional aftermath of the incident.
VanBuskirk's death and the subsequent legal proceedings have brought attention to the need for addressing drug-related violence and ensuring justice for victims and their families.
