In the early morning hours of Sunday, April 19, 2026, the life of Richard J. Staats, a 51-year-old man from Canton, Ohio, was irrevocably altered. Police responded to a chaotic scene at a residence on Tuscarawas Street West around 4:30 a.m. after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots. One frantic caller informed dispatchers that a man had been shot in the head inside the apartment.
Upon entering the home, officers found Staats between a bed and a wall with a critical gunshot wound to his head. First responders immediately began lifesaving measures before he was rushed to a local hospital.
Richard Staats fought for his life for two days while in critical condition. However, his injuries proved to be too severe. On the afternoon of Tuesday, April 21, 2026, he was taken off life support and passed away. Known to his friends and family as a beloved father, son, and grandfather, Staats was also a skilled drywaller, recognized by many as one of the best in Canton. His obituary described him as having a vibrant spirit and an unmatched sense of humor, a man who could light up a room and had a special connection with children.
The investigation into the shooting quickly progressed. In the days following the incident, detectives collected evidence from the scene and conducted numerous interviews with witnesses. On Friday, May 1, 2026, the Canton Police Chief announced a significant development in the case. Authorities identified 33-year-old Ashaad D. Carlisle, also of Canton, as the suspect. Arrest warrants were issued for Carlisle on charges of aggravated murder and discharging a firearm near prohibited premises. At the time of the announcement, police confirmed that Carlisle remained at large and asked for the public's help in locating him.
