On April 18, 2024, at approximately 4:05 p.m., the Putnam County Sheriff's Office received multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots at Kitchen Enterprises Trucking Company, located on Pro Tec Parkway near Leipsic, Ohio. Upon arrival, law enforcement and medical personnel discovered 30-year-old Farrah Renee Croninger of Deshler, Ohio, deceased from gunshot wounds. Additionally, 54-year-old Michael Kitchen of Ottawa, Ohio, sustained injuries and was transported to Mercy Health-St.
Rita's Medical Center; his condition was not specified at the time.
The suspect, identified as 26-year-old Konner Dunklee of Lima, Ohio, fled the scene but was apprehended later that day in Allen County. He was taken into custody without incident and subsequently housed at the Putnam County Adult Detention Center. Dunklee faced charges including aggravated murder, murder, and attempted murder. During his initial court appearance, a judge set his bond at $1 million.
A Putnam County grand jury indicted Dunklee on charges of aggravated murder in Croninger's death. In July 2024, he was found competent to stand trial. As of October 2024, plea negotiations were reported to be underway.
Farrah Croninger, born on September 20, 1993, in Napoleon, Ohio, was a graduate of Patrick Henry High School and had studied early childhood education at Four County Vocational School. She married Kyle Croninger on January 13, 2024, and was a devoted mother to her three children: Bentley, Sierra, and Cassidy Arens. At the time of her death, she worked in the parts department at Kitchen Enterprises Trucking Company and had recently started her own business, Farrah Lewis Birth Services. Her family and friends remember her as a loving individual with an infectious smile, who was passionate about motherhood and helping others.
The tragic incident has deeply affected the local community, prompting discussions about workplace safety and the importance of mental health awareness. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and encourage anyone with additional information to come forward.
