James-Michael T. Brice, a 21-year-old African American male from Columbus, OH, tragically lost his life on April 28, 2014. Brice and his friend, Lentwan M. Smith, aged 20, were shot and killed during an attempted robbery at Brandan M. Daugherty's apartment at Sawmill Crossing Apartments. Daugherty, who was also present in the apartment, claimed that he shot Brice and Smith in self-defense after they forced their way into his apartment with a gun.
The incident began when Daugherty opened
the door to his apartment, expecting a friend, but instead, he was confronted by Brice and Smith. According to Daugherty, one of the men hit him in the face with a gun, prompting him to shoot in self-defense. Neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots during the altercation. Detectives investigating the case determined that Brice and Smith were attempting to rob Daugherty of drugs.
Despite the tragic circumstances, Brice was remembered fondly by his family and friends. His grandmother, Gloria Morris, described him as a polite and helpful young man who often assisted her with household chores. The case was forwarded to the Franklin County prosecutor's office for review, but neither Daugherty nor Cory T. Speakman, another man present in the apartment, has been charged.
The loss of James-Michael T. Brice left a profound impact on his family and community, highlighting the devastating consequences of violence and crime in Columbus.
