On August 3, 2024, at approximately 6:50 PM, a tragic incident occurred in southeast Columbus, Ohio, resulting in the death of 28-year-old Michael Simmons. The shooting took place at a Sunoco gas station located on the 2600 block of Noe-Bixby Road. Columbus Police officers responded to reports of a shooting and found Simmons suffering from apparent gunshot wounds.
Despite efforts by medical personnel, Simmons was transported to Mount Carmel East Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased at 7:22 PM. The incident began as a fight between Simmons and one of the suspects at the gas station.
Two 18-year-old suspects were identified in connection with the shooting: Dwayne Johnson and Isiah Wharton-Howard. According to court documents, Wharton-Howard initially pulled out a gun during the argument and shot at Simmons. As Simmons attempted to flee, Johnson allegedly chased him and fired his own weapon, ultimately causing Simmons' death. The entire incident was reportedly captured on multiple cameras.
Law enforcement agencies launched a manhunt for the suspects. On August 21, 2024, U.S. Marshals arrested Isiah Wharton-Howard in Sandusky, Ohio. He was charged with murder and has pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder and one count of felony assault. His trial is scheduled for September 26, 2024.
The second suspect, Dwayne Johnson, was apprehended by U.S. Marshals on September 12, 2024. He was arrested at the intersection of Lockbourne Road and East Stewart Avenue on Columbus' South Side. Johnson appeared in court for an arraignment hearing, where a Franklin County judge set his bond at $2 million.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Michael Simmons' death continues, with authorities working to determine if there are any additional suspects involved. The Columbus Police Homicide Unit has urged anyone with information regarding this incident to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
