Kieta C. Smith, a 34-year-old African American male from Columbus, Ohio, tragically lost his life on May 6, 2015. Kieta was known for his artistic talents, particularly in pencil drawings and poetry, and was well-loved by his family and friends. He was the son of Jasper Smith and Carolyn Edwards Logan, and he leaves behind a daughter, Kira S. Smith, and other family members.
The circumstances surrounding Kieta's death involved an argument with Sherrod Larry Doneil Gamble, age 37, at an
apartment on Roosevelt Avenue. The argument escalated, and Gamble shot Kieta four times with a handgun. Kieta was pronounced dead at the scene. Gamble fled the scene but was later apprehended on May 25, 2015.
Following a jury trial, Gamble was found guilty of aggravated murder with a gun specification and was also convicted as a repeat violent offender. On April 21, 2016, Gamble was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, plus an additional sixteen years. The court's decision brought some measure of justice for Kieta's family, although it could never replace their loss.
Kieta's death was a tragic event that shook his community and highlighted the devastating consequences of violence. His memory lives on through his art, poetry, and the love of those who knew him.
