Robert "Rob" Dennis McKernan, a 29-year-old male of Caucasian ethnicity, tragically passed away on December 31, 2014, in Massillon, Ohio. He was born on August 18, 1985, in Canton, Ohio, and was a graduate of Perry High School. After high school, Rob served in the United States Air Force, working in Missile Maintenance. He later worked as a Tool Pusher for Franks Casing.
Rob was known for his love of motorcycles, four-wheelers, and his unwavering support for the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Rob's death was ruled a homicide. According to the coroner's report, he was shot ten times by his wife, Colleen McKernan, inside their home on New Year's Eve 2014. The bullets were fired from a semi-automatic Glock pistol into his back, chest, arm, abdomen, and mouth area. Gunshot residue indicated that Rob was shot in the face from less than two feet away. The couple had been arguing that night about money and drug use. Colleen claimed she acted in self-defense, but there were no signs of injuries on her, and no struggle was evident at the scene.
Colleen McKernan was initially charged with murder but eventually pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter. She was sentenced to seven years in prison but was released early as part of a plea agreement after serving 3.5 years. The case drew significant media attention and polarized public opinion. Colleen testified that Rob had been violent towards her in the past, and she feared for her life on the night of the shooting.
Rob McKernan is remembered by his family and friends as a loving father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his son Bentley McKernan, his parents, siblings, and other loved ones. A celebration of his life was held at the Paquelet Funeral Home in Massillon, and he was laid to rest at Massillon Cemetery.
