Patria Lipson, a 35-year-old woman of African American ethnicity, tragically lost her life on August 13, 2015, in Columbus, Ohio. She and her husband, Walter Lipson, were shot while sitting in their parked car on the South Side of Columbus. The incident occurred around 4:15 p.m. when a man, believed to be involved in a drug transaction with the couple, opened fire on them. Patria was shot at least twice and was immediately considered to be in grave condition. She was rushed to OhioHealth Grant Medical Center but succumbed to her injuries three days later on August 16, 2015.
The suspect in the shooting was identified as Tobias Wilkins, an 18-year-old man from the East Side of Columbus. Wilkins was charged with murder and held at the Fairfield County jail. According to police, Wilkins knew the couple and the shooting happened during a drug transaction. Wilkins was already in custody on an unrelated felony burglary charge when he was charged with murder.
The tragic death of Patria Lipson marked the 60th homicide investigated by Columbus police that year. The case drew significant attention from the community and law enforcement, highlighting the ongoing issues of violence and drug-related crime in the area. The investigation and subsequent arrest of Tobias Wilkins brought some measure of justice for Patria and her family, but the loss of such a young life left a lasting impact on those who knew her.
Patria Lipson is remembered by her family, including her husband and four children, as well as many friends and relatives who cherished her memory. Her funeral was held at Smyrna Baptist Church in Columbus, where she was honored and remembered by those who attended.
