On December 13, 2017, Jason Collins, aged 32, was killed during an apparent home invasion on North Harris Avenue in Columbus, Ohio. The incident took place at approximately 2:07 a.m., when the suspect, Harry Lee Lathon Jr., broke into the residence. Both Jason Collins and his brother, Joseph Collins Jr., were inside at the time of the intrusion. Jason was found with fatal gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene, while Joseph, aged 35, was seriously injured and transported to Mount
Carmel West Hospital in stable condition.
The suspect, Harry Lathon Jr., forcibly entered the home and then fled the scene in a late-model white Honda Odyssey. Authorities believe that Lathon is armed and dangerous. Despite extensive investigation, the whereabouts of Lathon remain unknown. This incident marked the 131st homicide in Columbus in 2017 and was one of five homicides that occurred within a span of four days in the city.
The Columbus Police Department has charged Lathon with aggravated murder, and they continue to appeal to the public for information regarding his location. Anyone with details is urged to contact the Columbus Police Homicide Unit or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers to help bring closure to this tragic case.
